In 1988, over 1,000 young people were anticipated to march down Victoria Parade in Suva to celebrate the beginning of the week-long Hibiscus Carnival. The Fiji Times reported on August 16 that this year’s carnival was making a comeback after a year-long hiatus.
The event was inaugurated by the Minister for Tourism, Civil Aviation and Energy, David Pickering, at Albert Park following the march. Students from eight schools in Suva and six marching teams participated, accompanied by bands from the Fiji police and the military forces.
Hassan Khan, a member of the carnival organizing committee, expressed the goal of creating an engaging program that would foster community spirit throughout the festivities. The week-long agenda included a Pacific night on Saturday, a youth night on Wednesday, multicultural events on Thursday and Friday, and concluded with the Hibiscus Carnival Island night.
Music concerts were scheduled during lunch breaks for attendees to enjoy. Former governor-general Ratu Sir Penaia Ganilau was expected to crown the new Hibiscus queen. Although three additional contestants entered the competition, the final count totaled 19 instead of the anticipated 20.
The newly crowned Miss Hibiscus queen would receive a ticket on Air Pacific to Japan and participate in the Miss Asia/Pacific quest in Hong Kong that October. Additionally, the Miss Charity titleholder would earn a trip to Brisbane.