Hawaii is known for many wondrous things such as stark white or black sand beaches, beautifully colored foliage and incredible weather. The amazing series of islands are formed from the hardened lava of multiple volcanoes, some of which remain active, giving this exotic locale an unique landscape. The people of Polynesia have many tantalizing customs and traditions with Luaus, the traditional parties for bringing people together, being among the most well known.
The ancient ways had Hawaiian men eating their meals of specially prepared dishes together while the women, servants and children were fed separately and only common foods. King Kamehameha II changed that in 1819 when he declared everyone, he included, eat as equals in the same place, doing away with religious taboos. He made this occasion a grand celebration and glorious feast, beginning the tradition.
According to authentic standards, these feasts are typically conducted outdoors with plenty of room for all, surrounded by bright foliage and colorful decorations. Guests are seated on mats on the ground and traditional foods are served without utensils. Fragrant leis are distributed as a welcome to all in attendance, music is played, dances are performed and thrilling entertainment is provided.
To host a party that is truly based on Hawaiian celebration traditions, some of the key aspects have to be represented. The authenticity is going to depend on how dedicated one is to being as realistic as possible. Some substitutions may be necessary in order to accommodate what items are easily available locally.
The first things most people think of when they hear there's going to be a luau are leis. These are brightly colored necklaces traditionally made from fresh flowers, ferns, shells and kukui nuts but can be given a fun twist by using silk blooms, money or candy to make them. Passing these out to welcome all guests will not only create a festive atmosphere but also lends an air of authenticity to the gathering.
Another central aspect to throwing an island themed party is the food choices. To be authentic, the meal would include things like pork that has been roasted in a traditional ground pit oven, poi, haupia, sea snails, squid and lomi-lomi salmon along with local fruits and beer. The issue is that most people without experience with these dishes are not likely to find them appetizing so substitutions like teriyaki, barbecue chicken, ribs, kebabs and salads with punch and Mai-tais to drink.
Entertainment may be one of the more difficult aspects to authenticate, though it is not impossible as there are many groups who specialize in this type of performance. A live band consisting of 2-4 musicians playing drums and ukuleles, a few hula girls, tropical bird shows and even Elvis impersonators are always big hits. If one has the means and desire to create an all out extravaganza, acts that are sure to thrill the guests are fire poi twirlers, warrior dancers and flaming knife handlers.
When thinking of location, typically a large backyard that has open spaces, parks and beaches that have shelters or tents can be very suitable choices. When looking for something a bit more formal, possible options include boats, yachts, and conference rooms in hotels. Adding decorations like palm trees, potted tropical plants, tiki torches, bamboo, rattan, coconuts and colorful streamers or parrot cutouts can boost the ambiance.
The ancient ways had Hawaiian men eating their meals of specially prepared dishes together while the women, servants and children were fed separately and only common foods. King Kamehameha II changed that in 1819 when he declared everyone, he included, eat as equals in the same place, doing away with religious taboos. He made this occasion a grand celebration and glorious feast, beginning the tradition.
According to authentic standards, these feasts are typically conducted outdoors with plenty of room for all, surrounded by bright foliage and colorful decorations. Guests are seated on mats on the ground and traditional foods are served without utensils. Fragrant leis are distributed as a welcome to all in attendance, music is played, dances are performed and thrilling entertainment is provided.
To host a party that is truly based on Hawaiian celebration traditions, some of the key aspects have to be represented. The authenticity is going to depend on how dedicated one is to being as realistic as possible. Some substitutions may be necessary in order to accommodate what items are easily available locally.
The first things most people think of when they hear there's going to be a luau are leis. These are brightly colored necklaces traditionally made from fresh flowers, ferns, shells and kukui nuts but can be given a fun twist by using silk blooms, money or candy to make them. Passing these out to welcome all guests will not only create a festive atmosphere but also lends an air of authenticity to the gathering.
Another central aspect to throwing an island themed party is the food choices. To be authentic, the meal would include things like pork that has been roasted in a traditional ground pit oven, poi, haupia, sea snails, squid and lomi-lomi salmon along with local fruits and beer. The issue is that most people without experience with these dishes are not likely to find them appetizing so substitutions like teriyaki, barbecue chicken, ribs, kebabs and salads with punch and Mai-tais to drink.
Entertainment may be one of the more difficult aspects to authenticate, though it is not impossible as there are many groups who specialize in this type of performance. A live band consisting of 2-4 musicians playing drums and ukuleles, a few hula girls, tropical bird shows and even Elvis impersonators are always big hits. If one has the means and desire to create an all out extravaganza, acts that are sure to thrill the guests are fire poi twirlers, warrior dancers and flaming knife handlers.
When thinking of location, typically a large backyard that has open spaces, parks and beaches that have shelters or tents can be very suitable choices. When looking for something a bit more formal, possible options include boats, yachts, and conference rooms in hotels. Adding decorations like palm trees, potted tropical plants, tiki torches, bamboo, rattan, coconuts and colorful streamers or parrot cutouts can boost the ambiance.
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