Last month's Annual Honolulu Festival provided much-needed boost to Hawaii's tourism industry, generating an estimated $10-million-plus in visitor spending and nearly $1 million in total tax revenues.

The 15th Annual Honolulu Festival, held March 13-15, drew more than 5,200 visitors — mostly from Japan — who came to Hawaii specifically to take part in the weekend of festivities, according to the Honolulu Festival Foundation.

"This year's Honolulu Festival was a great success for all involved. People seemed to really appreciate being able to enjoy for free the variety of cultural entertainment and exhibits," said Keiichi Tsujino, president of the Honolulu Festival Foundation.

In addition, the Festival's "Friendship Gala" fundraiser on March 14 generated more than $52,000 in support of Hawaii educational and cultural programs.