Hilo is a town located on the Big Island of Hawaii. It is the largest settlement and census-designated place in Hawaii County, with a population of 43, 263 as of the 2010 census. Hilo is the county seat of Hawaii County and is situated in the South Hilo District. The town overlooks Hilo Bay, and is near two shield volcanoes, Mauna Loa, an active volcano, and Mauna Kea, a dormant volcano. Hilo is home to the University of Hawaii at Hilo, ʻImiloa Astronomy Center, as well as the Merrie Monarch Festival, a week-long celebration of ancient and modern hula which takes place annually after Easter.