Hilo Ecstatic Dance
Thursday night ecstatic dance
Directions Maps, and Info
Overview
Ecstatic Dance Hilo is a weekly gathering that invites dancers of all backgrounds to explore freeform movement in the lush, tropical setting of Nani Mau Gardens. Held every Thursday evening, this event features a changing lineup of talented DJs who guide participants through a rich and immersive sound journey. The experience is designed to be a safe, intentional space where dancers can connect with music, movement, and community in an alcohol-free, judgment-free environment.
For those looking to deepen their connection before the dance, a pre-event workshop, The Dance of Relating, offers a unique warm-up focused on conscious connection, social engagement, and embodied presence.
Highlights
💃 Dance & Movement
🎶 Live Music & DJ Sets
🧘 Conscious & Wellness Gatherings
🌿 Community & Nature Connection
🏝️ Hilo Events & Culture
Parking and Access
Nani Mau Gardens is located in Hilo, a short drive from downtown. Free on-site parking is available for attendees. Arrive early to participate in the full journey from the opening to the closing circle.
Key Details
Best Time to Visit: Every Thursday evening
Duration: 2.5–3 hours (including pre-dance workshop)
Suitable For: Dance enthusiasts, community seekers, and those exploring movement-based mindfulness
Cost: Suggested donation (varies by event)
What to Bring
Comfortable dance attire – Wear loose, breathable clothing that allows for full-body movement.
Water bottle – Stay hydrated throughout the evening.
Open heart and mind – Approach the dance with an intention of self-expression and community connection.
Respect for the space and others – This is a non-verbal, substance-free, and judgment-free environment.
What to Expect
The Dance of Relating (Pre-Dance Workshop)
Before the main event begins, participants are invited to join a conscious connection workshop guided by Lotus. This warm-up session creates a welcoming environment for social engagement, deeper connection, and setting an open-hearted tone for the evening ahead.
Ecstatic Dance Journey
The main event follows the traditions of ecstatic dance as founded at Kalani Retreat Center over 20 years ago. Dancers embark on a movement journey guided by a rotating lineup of DJs, who craft a dynamic mix of global rhythms, electronic beats, and timeless soundscapes. The experience unfolds organically, allowing for self-expression, deep embodiment, and collective energy-building.
Opening & Closing Circles
The evening begins with an opening circle where the tone is set through an invocation, which may include a prayer, a performance, or an interactive activity. As the dance winds down into stillness, a closing circle offers space for reflection, community check-ins, and shared experiences.
Intentional Space & Community Guidelines
No talking on or around the dance floor.
No phone use, photography, or recording during the event.
Alcohol-free and substance-free space.
Children must be supervised at all times.
Respect for the venue, the community, and the dance itself.
Tips & Info
Arrive early – Doors open before the dance for the pre-event workshop. Attending from start to finish offers the most immersive experience.
Embrace the non-verbal space – Ecstatic Dance is about deep listening and embodied movement. Allow yourself to communicate through dance rather than words.
Stay for the closing circle – This is a valuable opportunity to integrate your experience and connect with others in the community.
Bottom Line
Ecstatic Dance Hilo at Nani Mau Gardens is a vibrant, immersive dance experience that blends movement, music, and mindfulness in a lush, tropical setting. Whether you're new to ecstatic dance or a longtime participant, this event offers a powerful space for self-expression and connection.