Attending a Hawaii Luau

Witnessing an authentic Hawaiian luau is definitely something that should be on your 'must see and do' list while visiting Hawaii.

For the people of Hawaii, the luau was and continues to be a way to gather and feast to commemorate an event, usually with one's ohana (family, though not just blood relatives). In the past, this meant celebrating a bountiful harvest or the victory of battle. In modern times a luau may be held to celebrate someones graduation, marriage, or birthday. The luau dance, or hula, is much more than just a dance - it's a fundamental part of Hawaiian culture that has significant meaning to the people; the hula tells a story. Modern luau include lei greetings, food, games, story telling, and of course, the hula. The main dish, usually boar, is prepared in an underground oven called the imu. This is usually called 'kalua pig,' where kalua literally means 'to cook in an underground oven.'

Each of the major islands offers luau performances, some more authentic than others. For the true authentic luau, look for descriptions that mention hula kahiko or the genuine hula dance. Some luau are more modernized than others, but regardless of which luau you attend you're sure to have a grand time.