What is a Luau?
A luau is a traditional Hawaiian feast celebrating special occasions. Originally called 'aha'aina, the modern luau includes food, music, hula, and the spirit of aloha.
Traditional Luau Foods
Main Dishes
- Kalua Pig: Whole pig cooked in underground imu (oven)
- Laulau: Pork and fish wrapped in taro leaves
- Lomi Lomi Salmon: Fresh salmon with tomatoes and onions
- Chicken Long Rice: Chicken with glass noodles
Side Dishes
- Poi: Pounded taro root paste
- Macaroni Salad: Hawaiian style, creamy
- Rice: Sticky white rice
- Sweet Potatoes: Purple or orange varieties
Desserts
- Haupia: Coconut pudding
- Kulolo: Taro and coconut pudding
- Tropical Fruits: Pineapple, papaya, mango
Luau Entertainment
- Live Hawaiian music
- Hula dancing performances
- Fire knife dancing (Samoan influence)
- Traditional instrument demonstrations
- Lei making activities
The Imu Ceremony
The unveiling of the kalua pig from the underground oven is a highlight:
- Pig wrapped in banana leaves
- Placed on hot lava rocks
- Covered with more leaves and earth
- Slow-cooked 6-8 hours
- Ceremonially uncovered at luau
Luau Attire
- Men: Aloha shirts, shorts or casual pants
- Women: Muumuu, sundress, or sarong
- Comfortable sandals or bare feet
- Fresh flower lei or haku
- Leave formal attire at home
Hosting Your Own Luau
Decorations
- Tiki torches for lighting
- Tropical flowers everywhere
- Bamboo and palm fronds
- Colorful sarongs as tablecloths
Music Playlist
- Israel Kamakawiwo'ole
- Jack Johnson
- Traditional slack-key guitar
- Ukulele favorites