How To Throw a Traditional Luau

In Hawai'i, certian Luaus are very important, including a baby's first luau, or first birthday, graduations, or weddings. In each, Pork or Kalua Pig, is the highlighted dish. Some Luaus in Hawaii will roast a pig in an Imu, or underground pit, but for a backyard bash, oven Kalua is perfectly acceptable!

Step 1  

Send out invitations, you want a lot of people at a Luau. Now days, there are a lot of pre-printed invitations you can pick up at your local party store that are Luau themed.

Step 2  

Set the attire to Aloha wear. Mention this in your invitations to get your guests in the theme.

Step 3  

Decide on a menu: Whether you go with traditional kalua pig, poi, poke, and sweet potato, or pineapple chicken and pork kabobs, you should decide on a menu early. Luau catering may be available in your area, but is expensive. If you decide to prepare food your self, plan ahead and make sure you have a few friends to help in the prep.

Step 4  

Research some traditional foods: If Poi is available in your area, pick some up and have guests try some!

Step 5  

Plan for some entertainment: Many metropolitan areas have Hula or Tahitian groups that can be booked for your party. While they may be expensive, they are a great way to integrate the traditional dance as well as entertain your guests.

Step 6  

Decorate! Fresh flowers, coconuts, and pineapples are great reusable decoration.

Step 7  

Get gifts for your guests: Everyone at your luau should have a lei, you can use either synthetic flower leis or shell leis from a party store or make your own with fresh flowers!

Tips

• Plan for more people, someone will always have an extra niece, girlfriend, or neighbor they will bring along. In the spirit of Hawaii, you should welcome them all!
• Research Hawaiian greetings so you can welcome your guests in Hawaiian! Aloha!
• Buy Hawaiian music to play at your party on. There is a great iTunes essentials mix that will give you a nice selection of traditional and modern Hawaiian music.

Warnings

• Be respectful of the culture, don't mock traditions of the Hawaiian people. While the Luau is something everyone can enjoy, it's purpose is to be a fun party, not a cultural idiocracy.
• Don't attempt to roast pork if you don't have experience in doing so. Purchase a pork tenderloin instead and bake it in the oven. You can ad a dash of liquid smoke to imitate the "in-ground" smoky flavor.