Sunday, May 19, 2013

Party In The Hawaiian Luau Way

By Antoinette Quinn


Celebrations of all types are great, but sometimes a little something extra is needed to spice up the occasion a bit. Doing the same things for every party or event can get a little stale and be less than an ideal experience for all. Some people enjoy setting a theme for their parties in order to provide some variety and interest. This is limited only by one's imagination and creativity. One popular and always enjoyable idea is to have a Hawaiian luau.

Most people are at least somewhat familiar with the idea of this type of a party. Hawaiian shirts, ukulele music, hula dancing and leis (flower necklaces) generally come to mind in addition to warm weather, good food and drinks. It's a popular affair currently as well as a tradition that was brought about quite some time ago.

As the story goes, the first luau was held in 1819 in Hawaii. Before that time, it was forbidden for men and women to eat together and there were certain types of foods that common people were not allowed to eat. However, in this year, King Kamehameha II decided that it was time to put an end to these restrictions and he dined with commoners and women and the luau was born.

The name of this method of celebrating comes from a dish that was one of the favorites in the early days of luaus. It is made by baking chicken combined with taro plant leaves in coconut milk. Along with the other foods being served, it would be eaten on simple mats that were placed on the floor. These parties could be huge at times with some of them including one thousand or more people.

Luaus started to gain widespread popularity once tourism in the islands began to increase. As early as the 1930's people in the mainland United States started to become aware of Hawaiian ways of life, either from direct experience from a trip there or by exposure via television or movies. The allure of this lifestyle and this type of celebration in particular quickly caught on and has been well-liked ever since.

A luau in Hawaii would be an ideal way to get a taste of this tradition, but for many this is not a viable option. There's no need to worry, however, because one can enjoy such a celebration with family and friends anywhere in the world, not only on a remote tropical beach.

The overall atmosphere of the celebration, entertainment, food and drinks are all important components. Any types of Hawaiian-based decorations can help to set the scene as can giving everyone who attends a lei to wear. Live or recorded Hawaiian music is a must and hula dancing certainly couldn't hurt. Some foods that are normally served are salmon, poi and tropical fruits. Mai tais are a popular drink to serve as well, but of course all of this depends upon the host and the guests.

Nearly everyone relishes a good party and it's always nice to add a bit of a twist. A Hawaiian luau is a great way to celebrate nearly any occasion with a little added flair and is certain to be enjoyed by all.




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