What To Expect At a Luau
Whether you are attending one or throwing a luau-themed party, it’s best to get the most out of your time at the luau by knowing the background and meaning of this special Hawaiian custom.
A visit to a luau is an essential part of visiting Hawaii, particularly in the case of your first visit to these islands. In addition to entertaining guests with stunning dancing and music, luaus are a great way to teach people valuable stories about the islands as well as showcase the long-running customs of Hawaiian tradition. This is everything you should be aware of before going to an authentic Hawaiian luau.
The History of The Luau
In the past, Hawaiians have held celebratory gatherings since the beginning of time. The gatherings included food, ono (delicious) food, dancing, chanting, and so much more.
Before 1819, a shrewd ruling code known as the kapu system imposed limits on certain segments of society. The system impacted these kinds of gatherings.
“In certain instances, the commoners were not allowed to eat certain food items at these kinds of gatherings”. “A (conch shell) was used to announce the beginning of the celebration or as a backdrop to oli, which is a traditional Hawaiian chant. Royals, dignitaries, and guests would typically sit on mats made of different leaves of different trees and eat food with their hands. Participants wore a dress code that was different from those seen in the present.”
After King Kamehameha II removed the kapu system celebrations were open to everyone gradually forming the luaus we all know and love to this day.
As the popularity of visiting the islands increased, aha’aina became known by the name of a frequently consumed Hawaiian food known as luau. The dish, which is a stew consisting of squid, chicken, or both cooked until tender in coconut milk and Taro, started to be a symbol of the celebrations. Nowadays, luau celebrations focus more on entertainment, but they still allow guests to get a taste of Hawaiian tradition.
Luaus provides the opportunity to get to know more about Hawaiian culture.
What Can You Expect From The Luau?
If you’re planning to attend a luau during your trip to Hawaii be prepared for a night of entertainment and learning. Here’s the best way to prepare but it could differ by luau.
- Arrival: Upon arriving at your destination, you’ll receive the traditional lei out of shells and kukui nuts or even flowers. If you’re pregnant, you’re expected to decline the lei because it is thought to be bad luck.
- Cultural activities: The stations are set up to allow Hawaiian crafts or games and demonstrations, including weaving or making a lei.
- Preparing food for the event: There’ll probably be a ceremony called an imu (underground oven) ceremony to cook an entire pork.
- Layout: Most luaus feature communal seating, so you can meet the other guests. However there are some with tables for guests to use.
- Dance and music: Musical entertainment tells stories about how Polynesians landed on the Hawaiian islands, as well as the myths of Gods and Goddesses. Dancers will perform on the stage to share these stories.
- Participation: In the future guests might get the chance to get up and perform the hula dances, which symbolize storytelling.
- Pyrotechnics: In addition to dance and song it is likely to be the Polynesian flame dancer.
What’s Available At A Luau?
While the menus aren’t the same for every celebration, there are some typical staples you’ll encounter. So come hungry!
Kalua pork: Roasted and shredded the pig.
Haupia: Custard made of coconut sugar and milk.
Poke Tuna: Raw tuna cubed and marinated with seaweed.
Poi: A staple starch used in the Hawaiian diet is cooked poi which is mashed with taro.
Lomi salmon is a cold dish made of salmon chopped with tomatoes, sea salt, and onions.
Squid luau – Squid stew cooked using coconut leaves and taro milk, after which the celebration is dubbed.
For drinks, the majority of luaus provide beer, wine along with other spirits along with popular tropical cocktails like pina coladas and mai tais.
There’s no reason to be hungry at a Hawaiian luau.
What Should You Wear to a Luau?
Like most occasions that take place in Hawaii, casual dress is appropriate. A majority of luaus are held outdoors, so dress in appropriate clothing that is weather-proof and comfortable as well as footwear. A Hawaiian shirt is also acceptable. Even though the majority of Hawaiian evenings are balmy and warm it is advisable to pack a lightweight jacket or a sweater during those colder winter months.
What Makes a Great Luau?
When you are planning the luau of your dreams, it is suggested to do your research. Find out what the package comprises. Do you include an open bar or buffet-style food? When making a reservation for a luau A&B Party Rentals advice is to be aware of what amenities are included with the show, like the entertainment before dinner or demonstrations, participation on stage and entertainment at dinner, as well as the location.
However, most importantly, ensure that the luau truly represents Hawaiian culture. If you’re planning to attend an event like a luau, it’s investing your money into a business that promotes Hawaiian culture so you should ensure that it takes care of its employees and seeks to inform guests about Hawaiian traditions and history.