22 Lovely Luau Party Ideas for a Tropical Celebration
Jason Buxton
Contributor
It’s easy to see why so many people appreciate Hawaiian and Polynesian cultures. Bright and vibrant, these islands share an authentic connection with their environment—a quality that rarely does anyone any injustice. We’ve put together some luau party ideas to help you to transform your event into an authentic island-style extravaganza that any Hawaiian would be proud of.
A lūʻau ( pronounced lou-ow) represents a celebration of life; a time where people, close or unfamiliar, can come together and honor the beauty of being alive. Bright and vibrant, these islands share an authentic connection with their environment—a quality that rarely does anyone any injustice.
Encompassing all sorts of milestones like a birthday party or a summer party, a luau party can provide the perfect theme for any occasion. However, it’s always important to recognize the cultural significance of such celebrations and ensure your party is held respectfully.
Here are some fun luau party ideas to keep in mind for your next celebration:
Luau Themed Party Entertainment
Hula Dancers
Hawaii is famous for so many things, and hula dancers are certainly one of them. Wearing traditional pa`u (flowing skirts) and kupe`e (adornments made from leaves), or perhaps a muumuu (a loose, brightly colored dress), these talented dancers will perform the hula for enchanted onlookers. Guests will absolutely love it and maybe even join in themselves.
Ukulele Player
No Hawaiian luau party would feel complete with the serenading sounds of the ukulele to charm everyone attending your event. Whether you know someone who can play a few tunes or you hire a professional, Ukulele music will totally add to the vibe of your celebration.
Fire Eater
Add a woah-factor to your tropical party with the help of a fire eater—these professionals really need to be seen to be believed. It doesn’t matter if there are one, two, or three of them; you can bet that their unique talents will captivate you and your guests.
Lawn Games
Depending on your venue of choice, lawn games are fun, interactive, and easily translated according to a particular event theme. For instance, take a Hawaiian approach to the vintage game of hot potato with ‘Pass The Coconut.’ Some other fun ideas include garden limbo and pineapple bowling, with many more for you to explore.
Luau Themed Party Vendors
Food & Beverage Caterers
We’re not saying that you can’t do it yourself, but having professionals take care of meals and drinks will save you a ton of time and energy. You might even find a caterer that specializes in Hawaiian cuisine and will add that little extra authenticity to your luau experience.
Photographers & Photobooths
Preserving a special occasion is an integral part of the process. Once all the pineapples have been eaten, and the coconuts slurped, you’ll need something to remind you of this Hawaiian party.
Hiring a professional photographer or renting a photo booth ensures that many of the party’s magical moments are captured forever—especially for those who dress on-theme.
Florist
As far as your luau-themed party is concerned, flowers are simply a must-have feature, as many Hawaiian tales are often connected to the beauty of brilliant blooms. Let’s be honest; there’s nothing quite like entering a florally-decorated venue.
If you can get your hands on some Plumeria, Hawaiian Hibiscus, and even Ohia Lehua, it will surely transport you and your guests through visual and fragrant bliss. If you can find a vendor offering traditional Hawaiian leis or grass skirts, all the better!
More Luau Party Ideas
Leis
There is no doubt that the lei is one of, if not the quintessential decorative item for any luau. Traditionally, you should receive one when you arrive at the event; the garment is placed around your neck and worn throughout the festivities. Beautiful and floral, it is truly a symbol of the joyful spirit associated with Hawaiian culture.
Muumuus & Hula Skirts
Dresses usually covered in bright, floral patterns, muumuus are synonymous with Hawaiian dress codes. If you’re a fan of free-flowing attire, this will likely appeal to your sensibilities. You could go retro and don a tealeaf-style skirt, a typical garment worn by classic Hawaiian-inspired individuals throughout the ages.
Hawaiian Shirts & Flip-Flops
For those aiming to capture the laid-back aesthetic of the Aloha State, look no further than the aloha shirt. Much like other attire from these spectacular islands, they are vibrantly colored and feature eye-catching patterns. What better item to pair your fun shirt with than some flip-flops? Once combined, there won’t be a soul around to doubt the authenticity of your luau chill.
Pineapples
When people think of Hawaii, pineapples are often closely associated with it—despite not even being native to the region. Regardless, their distinctive shape, striking yellow color, and rosette of prickly leaves feature in many luau designs. Whether you have the actual fruit on display or you’re using pineapple-shaped decorations, they will add a tropical flair to the look and feel of your celebration.
Coconuts & Palm Fronds
To decorate your venue with an island-style look, you might want to try and source a few simple items. Palm fronds make you think of white sandy beaches and crystal clear oceans. Throw a few up around the place, and you’ll probably convince a few guests into thinking they’re somewhere in Honolulu. The same goes for coconuts; they’ll also double up as a snack if you’re prepared to go full Tom Hanks from Cast Away.
Luau Party Decorations
Photo: RossGraphix/shutterstock.com
When it comes to luau party decorations, it doesn’t have to be too much. Incorporate key elements like palm leaves or palm trees, tiki torches, and the above mentioned pineapples and coconuts. These decorations and party items can be used as table settings too.
Luau Party Food Ideas
Finger Foods
Funnily enough, finger foods seem to be a massive hit at luaus. From Hawaiian Hot Dogs (with Grilled Pineapple and Teriyaki Mayo—yum!) to the ever-popular Aloha Burgers, bite-sized snacks are IN! Serving food this way is also far easier and more convenient than sit-down dining. Guests will be able to dig in when they want while continuing to socialize and enjoy themselves.
BBQ
If you need some inspiration for your luau party food, you might not need to look further than your backyard grill. BBQs are popular in Hawaii—who wouldn’t love hanging out over a flame immersed in tropical weather and glorious oceanside views? It’s also an option if you’re not into getting a caterer; however, hiring a professional BBQ caterer doesn’t sound like a bad idea either.
Pineapple Upside-Down Cake
Who’s ready for dessert? If any sweet dish is iconic in Hawaiian cuisine, it’s most likely the one-of-a-kind pineapple upside-down cake. The unique look and mouth-watering flavor combinations will surely be a big hit at your luau party.
Luau Party Drink Ideas
Blue Hawaiian
Created in Honolulu in 1957, it seems only fitting that you should have this refreshing beverage on your luau party menu. Bright and blue, a seasoned mixologist knows to carefully layer the Blue Hawaii with its various ingredients. You can make it look extra bougie by garnishing it with (non-toxic) tropical flowers, fresh pineapple wedges, or maraschino cherries.
Piña Colada
It might be from Puerto Rico, but the Piña Colada has a special place in the heart of cocktail-loving Hawaiians. Rich, creamy, and oh-so decadent, this timeless classic exudes a tropical aesthetic that is bound to mix well with your luau aesthetic.
Pro Tip: try serving your Piña Coladas in a hollowed-out coconut to add to the illusion that you and your guests are actually somewhere on a Pacific island.
Mai Tai
Taste island paradise in the form of the Hawaiian Mai Tai. From Kauai to Pāhoa, every beach bar and restaurant serves this sumptuous beverage—and with good reason, too. Known for its alluring flavors and commanding appearance, you know your luau is heading for success when these drinks start flying out of the bar.
Unique Luau Party Venues
The Beach
The beach can provide the perfect setting for a luau in true Hawaiian style. It’s a cost-effective option, too, since you (most likely) won’t need to rent it out. Enjoy some sunshine, swim, and celebrate with a delicious tropical-inspired mocktail as you and your guests socialize on the warm sand. Make sure to pack a little sunscreen, some shade, and plenty of water—it’s always an essential combination down on the seashore.
A Restaurant
Often themed, restaurants provide a simple solution to finding a convenient space to host a party. No need to arrange food and beverage caterers as you’ll presumably find everything you need on-site. Some establishments permit you to bring in your own decorations, allowing you the opportunity to imprint some Shaka Mahalo energy into the look and feel of your luau.
Your Backyard
In the spirit of DIY party planning, hosting an occasion at your house can often be the best option. Take the pressure of finding the ideal venue for your luau off your shoulders and use what you’ve got. Use your backyard, rent out a tiki bar, find some palm fronds, and set up some torches, and you’ll feel like you’re in Hawaii.
Find more ideas and inspiration for your next event here on The Bash.
