Tiki torches, grass skirts, flower leis, and lots of music, food, and fun? It’s a luau, the traditional Hawaiian party that has become synonymous with good times.
The Hawaiian word “luau” may technically be defined as a party, but it is so much more. A genuine luau in the Hawaiian tradition took months to plan and prepare because it is a community gathering as well as a contest of skill and intelligence. So give yourself plenty of time and set a budget as a guide for the party.
Start by planning to hold a luau outside, as it would be in authentic Hawaiian culture. If palm trees don’t grow in the region, lay down some clippings and consider adding some vivid tropical flowers in pots. Decorate the party space with tiki torches, seashells, fishing nets, grass skirts, colorful streamers, anything that suggests the warm and light atmosphere of the islands. Make sure they are mobile decorations in case the party has to move indoors for some reason.
Inform guests in advance about the theme of the Hawaiian luau. Emphasize that the dress is tropical casual: Hawaiian shirts and baggy shorts, moo-moo, sarongs and sandals, straw hats, bikini tops and grass skirts. Greet each guest with a flower lei (real if budget allows, silk if cost is an issue). Don’t forget a warm “Aloha!”
For drinks, no problem: tropical cocktails like Mai Tais, Pina Coladas and Daiquiris are a perfect option, especially if they are presented in coconut shells. Be sure to serve mocktails, iced tea or fruit punch for underage and non-alcoholic drinkers. Cover all drinks with colorful cocktail umbrellas.
Luau menus focus on generous portions of grilled meat and sides, especially sliced fruit. Roasting a whole roast pig on a backyard spit will impress guests, but only experienced (or brave) cooks should try this delicacy. Check with a local butcher about getting a pig to roast. Other menu options include chicken, pork, beef or fish entrees, often marinated in teriyaki sauce and grilled. The sweet and salty flavor of teriyaki sauce also makes a great dipping sauce. As a last resort, there’s always a pineapple-and-clove-studded ham, but consider trying at least one unusual recipe.
The fun of a real luau includes music, dancing, and games of skill and strength. Again, if the budget allows, there may be a local Pacific Islander social club with a dance troupe that would be happy to entertain for a donation. They can even teach guests the hula. Rig games with a Hawaiian theme, such as “Pin the Tail on the Pig,” “Bobbing for Fish” in a wading pool, or “Hot Coconut” instead of “Hot Potato.” Younger children can string their own leis with plastic flowers and fishing line, while older children and adults can take part in spear throwing contests (make sure the points are blunt). As prizes, little ones will love the small tropical-themed toys, while adults will probably appreciate the bags of Kona ground coffee (especially if they’ve had one too many Mai-Tais).
Above all, a Hawaiian luau is about enjoying good food and good company. So put on some island music, put on a grass skirt and get into the spirit of the South Pacific.