Albert Park hosted the 70th anniversary of the Hibiscus Festival, but the Suva City Council did not receive any venue hire revenue from the event.

The Council have highlighted that the festival instead generated more than $823,000 through its activities and sponsorships, with wider benefits reaching vendors, businesses and the community.

The return of the Hibiscus Festival to Albert Park came without a venue hire charge for the Suva City Council, with the Council owning and operating both the park and the festival.

When questioned in parliament on the revenue from the use of the grounds, the Minister for Housing and Local Government, Maciu Nalumisa, clarified that no direct revenue was received from the park.

“No direct revenue has been received by the Council from the utilisation of Albert Park grounds for the 2026 Hibiscus Festival” Nalumisa highlighted.

Nalumisa told parliament that the festival itself generated substantial revenue, with the provisional accounts showing more than $823,000.

He added that the wider benefit was also felt by vendors, food operators, entertainers, transport providers and other businesses involved in the festival.

“According to the provisional accounts of the Hibiscus Festival 2026, total revenue generated amounted to $823,144.”

For those using Albert Park beyond the festival, the Minister also highlighted that the grounds are now being maintained and allowed to recover after the major event.

He said this is to ensure the park remains available for future public and community activities.

“The park has been restricted to allow the turf to recover properly, with ongoing fertilization and maintenance undertaken progressively as part of the overall upkeep program of the Albert Park” he confirmed.
The final festival accounts and audit are expected to be submitted to the Suva City Council around November or December, after which funds raised specifically for charitable purposes are expected to be distributed before the end of the year.

By: Joeli Ragoneliwa