Luaus are a traditional Hawaiian feast.
In 1819, King Kamehameha II abolished the ancient Hawaiian eating restrictions for men and women by hosting a feast in which they were allowed to dine together. This is how the traditional luau was born. Today, Hawaiians still host co-ed luaus that proceed according to a number of unique Hawaiian customs.
Decorations
Coconut cups are commonly used to decorate luau feasts.
Traditional Hawaiian luaus are lavishly decorated in a tropical theme. Many flowers and ferns make up the luau backdrop, and tables are decorated with items such as coconut cups and pandanus leaf mats. In modern times, tiki lamps and colorful tablecloths printed with island themes have become integral to Hawaiian luau decorating customs.
Dress
Colorful leis are a large part of traditional Hawaiian luaus.
Loose fitting shirts, pants, and dresses made of colorful Tapa cloth are customary luau attire for Hawaiian luau attendees. Grass skirts and flower or leaf adornments are worn by traditional luau dancers. Simple sandals or flip flops are worn instead of closed-toe or high-heeled shoes. The lei -- whether made of flowers, fruit or shells -- is one of the most important Hawaiian customs associated with luaus. Leis are exchanged by attendees as a sign of honor and a warm welcome.
Food
Roast pig is central to Hawaiian luau customs.
A traditional Hawaiian luau will always include a roast pig. Kalua pua'a -- roast pork -- is generally seasoned with salt and green onions, then spit-roasted over an open fire. Poi -- boiled taro root -- is another staple Hawaiian food that is customarily served at luaus. This dish is served at differing consistencies, depending on how much water is added to the taro roots after they are pounded into a paste. Other food items likely to be present at an authentic Hawaiian luau include: Poke, or raw fish with lemon or lime; Hawaiian sweet potatoes, which are dark purple in color; fresh tropical fruits; and guava cake for dessert.
Dance
Hula dance is deeply symbolic in nature.
Hula dance is a standard Hawaiian luau custom. Originally reserved for rituals and ceremonies, hula is now part of the Hawaiian entertainment tradition. During luau feasts, skilled luau dancers perform highly symbolic gestures to the rhythm of tribal drum beats and traditional ukulele strums. Each movement of the hula dance carries with it a universal language that can be understood by those who have studied or been raised in Hawaiian culture. Various hula dances communicate on subjects such as war, nature, and love.
Tags: Hawaiian luau, traditional Hawaiian, Hawaiian customs, Hawaiian luaus, Hula dance