Food is just one aspect of throwing a Hawaiian luau.
When you are hosting a Hawaiian luau party, you have many things to plan and execute to create the laid-back island atmosphere. Depending on how big of a party you are throwing, you might want to start planning up to a year in advance. Use a to-do list to ensure you do not forget any of the important elements. Does this Spark an idea?
Invitations
Make a guest list so you know approximately how many people will be at the luau. Choose a date and location for your luau party. If your home or yard is not large enough, contact rental facilities and adjust the party date to fit an available slot at the facility. Create an invitation on the computer, purchase invitations or make them by hand. Invitations should include Hawaiian images, such as hula dancers, tropical flowers, pineapples or beach scenes. Include the occasion, time, date, location and RSVP information. In addition, add a note if guests should wear Hawaiian attire. Mail invitations at least two weeks in advance so guests have time to plan.
Decorations
List all of the decorations that you would like to have for the party, and check off the ones you already own. For example, you might want silk flower leis, colored string lights, raffia table skirts, inflatable palm trees, beach umbrellas, beach towels and an ocean-themed backdrop. Shop at party supply stores for any decorations you do not own. Recruit people to help you set up the decorations before the party. Start early in the morning, or if possible, the day before, to allow plenty of time to decorate the space.
Food and Drinks
Plan a menu for the luau. Pork is the traditional luau food, so you can either roast a whole pig or bake pork roasts and serve them sliced or as pulled pork. Cook at least 1/3 lb. of meat per person. For side dishes, serve rolls, rice, tropical fruit salad and macadamia nuts. Make a tropical punch with fruit juice, coconut milk and club soda. Hire or recruit someone to work at the bar serving alcoholic drinks and making smoothies to order.
Activities
Set up a sound system and purchase music with the laid-back feel of an island destination. If your luau will include a dance, make a play list for the dance or hire a DJ. Plan games or activities for guests to participate in, and gather the required supplies for each activity. Ideas include a limbo competition, island charades and musical chairs with beach towels instead of chairs. For a team activity, have a relay race where each participant has to put on an outrageous Hawaiian outfit and complete a series of tasks before passing the outfit along to the next team member.
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