Rain fell early yesterday morning in Suva, the capital city of Fiji. Strong winds swept through the venue of the Hibiscus Festival, making it difficult for the sun to shine. Despite the challenging conditions that caused some roofing iron to be torn from stalls, thankfully, there were no injuries reported.
People still gathered in the city for the festival’s final day, bringing a sense of hope for a revitalized experience at this cherished event. As Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka crowned Melania Tora as Miss Hibiscus 2024, the audience at Suva Foreshore responded positively, and fireworks illuminated the night sky, creating a beautiful conclusion to the event.
Although obtaining information from the event’s communications team presented some difficulties, the participation of the community remained a priority. Fijians turned out in large numbers, demonstrating their appreciation for the Hibiscus Festival, a significant occasion in their cultural calendar filled with memories and traditions.
The festival also provided a sense of encouragement as the nation continues to recover from the various challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, including job losses and economic instability. Events like the Hibiscus Festival foster community spirit, joy, and contribute to the local economy.
Chairman of the Hibiscus Festival, Opetaia Ravai, remarked that the event reinstated a vibrant energy in Suva, noting the community’s need for such gatherings after the trials of recent years. He expressed optimism for the future of the festival, indicating that there is always potential for improvement and growth.
As another festival concludes, the atmosphere last night was filled with joy, laughter, and community spirit. With opportunities for enjoyment, connection, and lessons learned, the event reaffirmed the importance of celebrating together. Congratulations were extended to the winners of the festival.