Hawaii is a unique island that has a culture built on centuries of Hawaiian tradition. This pacific island, though it may be part of the U.S., still possesses its own unique identity in comparison to the other 49 states. The island life is not just a mantra, it's a way of living, and this includes the traditional customs that visitors might have the chance to see during their vacation.
One such tradition is that of the luau, a traditional dance that goes back to the early 19th century. Back then, it was a celebration that commemorated with a feast and dance, something that onlookers are sometimes still privy to today.
Having the chance to attend a luau or being invited to one is a big honor, and it's one of the most enchanting experiences one can have in Hawaii. However, before attending, its guests unfamiliar with Hawaii's customs should know these things, first.
The Significance Of The Luau
It's important to acknowledge that just because one is attending a luau in Hawaii does not mean that the customs are distinctly Hawaiian. Many of the dance's history also comes from Polynesian cultures, which have strongly influenced that of Hawaii. Additionally, every luau dance is unique in the sense that it can be influenced by those performing it. Therefore, the luau can be as modern or traditional as its performers deem, thus reflecting the Hawaiian community and the cultures represented by the celebration.
With that being said, a luau is an important and culturally significant experience to add to anyone's trip to Hawaii. If nothing else, it's important to remember that the luau marked the end of a great division between men and women in Hawaiian society. Prior to King Kamehameha II's rule, neither gender was able to eat a meal with one another, and certain foods - pork, bananas, and moi reef fish - were forbidden. When King Kamehameha II came into power, he successfully ended the division and the bans, thus bringing forth the first aha’aina - AKA, the luau.
The first luau involved very many of the same things that it does today: dancing, singing, chanting, and a great feast. This celebratory atmosphere was extended to include practically any momentous occasion, from holidays to birthdays. Today, it's the same celebration that visitors to Hawaii can witness for themselves - and there's definitely an etiquette to follow in regard to how one respects this beautiful custom.
Attending A Luau In Hawaii: The Rules
First and foremost, attendees are expected to honor and respect Hawaii's celebrations, including luaus. This is where many people have the chance to see a traditional hula dance in person, and it's a beautiful costume that's performed at many resorts and venues. According to Kapo Trading, the hula is a dance that reflects the expression of culture and customs in Hawaii. As with any traditional dance, it's expected that guests will watch, learn, and respect the dancers, as it is a strong art form.
What Can One Expect?
A luau often includes a wide array of things, including a buffet and beverages. Guests will have the chance to hear traditional Polynesian music, as well, which is often performed live. In addition to traditional Polynesian or hula dances, guests will be treated to an authentic luau feast. Before all of that, however, one is greeted with a traditional lei greeting. This is also an early Polynesian tradition; it's traditional to wear these around one's neck the entirety of the luau or gathering. If one is pregnant, it's customary to refuse as this is usually seen as bad luck.
From there, guests can expect the following:
- Beverages are offered, and they can be part of a specific menu or coming from an open bar.
- There can be stations set up for traditional Hawaiian crafts or games, which are intended to teach guests about the island's culture.
- The food will be part of an imu ceremony; an imu is a giant underground 'oven' that holds hot coals. Pork is usually the meat of choice that's cooked by using this method.
- The seating is usually community-style, and guests will usually be treated to some type of show - Polynesian dances or hula are often included.
- When it's time to eat, food will be served in a buffet-style manner.
- A first or secondary Polynesian dance will usually take place following dinner.
- While not every luau will feature it, nine times out of ten, a Samoan Fireknife dancer will follow up with a Fireknife dance to end the celebration.
What To Wear
Traditionally, the attire throughout Hawaii is about comfort first, fashion second. Comfortable clothes are encouraged, such as comfortable shorts, sundresses, Hawaiian shirts - basically, any tropical attire that's casual but suitable for a celebratory gathering.