There are many wondrous things for which Hawaii is known such as the beautiful foliage colors, amazing white and black sand beaches, and great weather. The islands were formed from the lava of many volcanoes, some still active, which gives the exotic state a unique landscape. The multiple cultures of Polynesia have traditions and customs including luaus, parties used for gathering people for food and celebration, for which they are 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.
One of the first things that come to mind when thinking of these parties are leis. Made from freshly cut blooms, ferns, kukui nuts or shells, these festive necklaces may also be purchased or constructed out of silk flowers, candy or even money. Greeting each guest by placing one around their neck sets a welcoming and festive mood and brings a bit of authenticity to the event.
The food choices are another key aspect of throwing a party with an authentic island theme. Traditionally they would serve pork cooked in an underground oven, poi, sea snails, squid, lomi-lomi salmon, haupia, fresh local fruits and beer. Realistically, most people who have not acquired a taste for these dishes would probably appreciate substitutions such as barbecue chicken, ribs, kebabs, teriyaki, salads, Mai-tais and punch.
One of the biggest challenges might be to provide authentic entertainment, though this is not an impossible feat as there are groups who specialize in this. Some things that usually go over well are musicians playing island drums and ukuleles, tropical birds, Elvis impersonators and especially hula girls in grass skirts. If the idea is to throw an extravaganza and the means are available, warrior dancers, flaming knife twirlers and fire poi spinners are always sure to thrill the crowd.
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.
One of the first things that come to mind when thinking of these parties are leis. Made from freshly cut blooms, ferns, kukui nuts or shells, these festive necklaces may also be purchased or constructed out of silk flowers, candy or even money. Greeting each guest by placing one around their neck sets a welcoming and festive mood and brings a bit of authenticity to the event.
The food choices are another key aspect of throwing a party with an authentic island theme. Traditionally they would serve pork cooked in an underground oven, poi, sea snails, squid, lomi-lomi salmon, haupia, fresh local fruits and beer. Realistically, most people who have not acquired a taste for these dishes would probably appreciate substitutions such as barbecue chicken, ribs, kebabs, teriyaki, salads, Mai-tais and punch.
One of the biggest challenges might be to provide authentic entertainment, though this is not an impossible feat as there are groups who specialize in this. Some things that usually go over well are musicians playing island drums and ukuleles, tropical birds, Elvis impersonators and especially hula girls in grass skirts. If the idea is to throw an extravaganza and the means are available, warrior dancers, flaming knife twirlers and fire poi spinners are always sure to thrill the crowd.
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.
No comments:
Post a Comment
Please, feel free to leave any comment or feedback on this blog