STAR-BULLETIN The Naniloa Volcanoes Resort, one stop on the Merrie Monarch Festival's courtesy shuttle route, sold hats and crafts at a previous festival.

Free shuttle is offered during Merrie Monarch

Traffic and parking can be challenging during Hilo's annual Merrie Monarch Festival, but this year, a free shuttle will make transportation easier for residents and visitors.

The Aloha Hilo Courtesy Shuttle begins Wednesday and will pick up passengers beginning at 8 a.m. at the Naniloa Volcanoes Resort on Banyan Drive, and every hour on the hour after that, through 4 p.m. Stops include Afook-Chinen Civic Auditorium, site of a Hawaiian arts and crafts fair; the University of Hawaii-Hilo; 'Imiloa Astronomy Center, site of cultural programs; and the Mo'oheau Bus Terminal, before returning to the Naniloa for another loop.

The festival's hula competitions begin at 5:30 p.m. at the Edith Kanaka'ole Stadium. A Hawaiian Airlines courtesy shuttle will provide complimentary transportation to the sold-out hula competition from Banyan Drive hotels.

Those outside Hilo can catch the Hele-On bus into Hilo. Call (808) 961-8744 for schedules. Call the Big Island Visitors Bureau at (808) 961-5797 for festival information.