How to Host a Successful Hawaiian Luau

Hawaiian Luaus are so much fun. They are colorful, lively, and are full of island flavor. If you are planning to throw a Hawaiian Luau, consider these three steps to making it a success!

1. Set The Stage

Decorations, invitations, and attire are what sets the mood for your luau. Make your invitations fun, colorful, and make sure to make it clear you are hosting a Hawaiian Luau. Suggest that people wear their favorite Hawaiian shirt or island wear. If you are hosting a luau in colder months, it would be cute to let people know that your home will be a personal oasis of warmth (by keeping your heat comfortable for island attire). As far as decorations, some things that say luau are: Hibiscus flower decorations, grass skirting on tables, palm trees, coconuts, lanterns, tiki torches, and of course, Hawaiian leis. Don't forget to place a lei on each guest as they enter and tell them, 'Aloha'.

2. Food And Drink

This is what makes the Hawaiian Luau something guests will be talking about. Think about what foods are tropical and may grow in Hawaii. Things like bananas, coconuts, mango, pineapple, are all foods native to Hawaii. Put together some fun drinks like pina colada, or pineapple martinis would be fun. Also, drinks out of coconuts, or coconut-shaped cups would be a creative idea. As far as food, macadamia nuts, barbecued pork or chicken, ham-wrapped pineapple chunks, tropical fruit salad, Cold noodle salads are also Hawaiian inspired. A large part of making your Luau food look amazing, is garnishing. You could serve tropical fruit salad inside a pineapple, or your macadamia nuts can be served inside a coconut. You can garnish with colorful lime, lemon, and cherries. The idea is for the food and drink to be as colorful as the decorations. Don't forget the little umbrellas in your drinks, either!

3. Games, Music, Favors

Don't forget to have some fun! Some ideas for games include playing limbo, or playing with hula hoops. These help you master the hip roll that is essential in Polynesian dancing. You could give out little favors for the person most dressed 'Luau style' or whoever can go the lowest while limboing. You can look for favors at Oriental Trading Company. They have a ton of accessories, decorations, and favors that can turn any living room or party space into a Hawaiian paradise! Also, download some music or purchase some Hawaiian island music to set the mood for your Luau.

You can throw a Hawaiian luau that is both fun, festive, and memorable if you follow these three simple steps. When planning your party, always keep in mind island colors, smells, flavors, and scenery. Keep an eye out for accessories and decorations that fit the theme, even if they are not 100% Hawaiian. For example, pink, lime, and lemon-colored plates would be perfect for a Hawaiian luau even though they aren't specifically targeted for a luau. Think outside the box, and with some planning, you can have a Hawaiian luau to remember!