Traditional luaus weren’t centered on unlimited mai tais, lavish feasts, or even hula dancing. Instead, they were religious ceremonies to honor Hawaiian gods and ancestors, then celebrations of important milestones and victories. So do authentic luaus in Hawaii still exist?
Definitely! While authentic luaus have evolved since the 1800s along with Hawaiian culture, many celebrations today still focus on traditional practices. Let’s explore what to look for in an authentic Hawaiian luau and where to experience one.
A Short Lūʻau History Lesson
Before we dive into the present-day lūʻau experience, let’s take a quick look at its history. Luau was originally called ‘aha‘aina—”aha” translating to gathering, and “aina” to land or “that which feeds”. ‘Aha‘aina were held to honor important events like birthdays and battle victories and celebrate the Hawaiian gods.
It wasn’t until 1819 when King Kamehameha II abolished the traditional Hawaiian religion and kapu that lūʻaus became similar to the ones we know today. Missionaries introduced new customs and foods, and lūʻaus evolved into social gatherings instead of religious ceremonies. Even the name “lūʻau” comes from a traditional Hawaiian dish with taro leaves, coconut milk, and chicken.
Since Hawaii has evolved and adapted to the many historical and cultural influences, luaus have also changed over time. But that doesn’t mean you can’t experience luaus that commemorate Hawaii’s rich history and traditions!
7 Things in Every Authentic Luau in Hawaii
While some luaus have become more commercialized, you can still find authentic luaus that offer a genuine Hawaiian cultural experience. Here are seven things you can expect to find in a legitimate luau in Hawaii:
1. Traditional and Riveting Dances
Hula is a dance form that has been passed down through generations in Hawaii, and it is an integral part of luaus. In a genuine luau, you can expect to see hula dancers performing traditional dances that tell stories of Hawaiian legends and myths.
Since Hawaii has become the center for many Polynesian cultures, authentic luaus in Hawaii often include dances and performances from cultures like Tahiti and Samoa, including incredible fire knife dancing!
2. A Local Feast with Hawaiian Staples
Of course, no luau is complete without a feast! An authentic luau will serve up traditional Hawaiian dishes that have been passed down for generations. Don’t hesitate to try the vibrant flavors of local cuisine, including the following dishes:
- Kalua Pig: A whole pig cooked in a traditional oven and shredded for a delicious and tender main course.
- Lomi Lomi Salmon: This refreshing dish consists of fresh salmon, tomatoes, onions, and sea salt.
- Taro Rolls: These purple rolls are made with taro, a starchy root vegetable considered a staple in Hawaiian cuisine.
3. Storytelling and Cultural Education
Luaus were originally held to honor important events and gods—it’s only fitting that in a genuine luau in Hawaii, guests learn about the rich history and traditions of the land. You may even participate in traditional activities like headband weaving or kava testing.
4. Imu or Umu Oven Ceremony
Authentic luaus in Hawaii often include an imu or umu ceremony, the traditional Polynesian method of cooking the pig for the kalua pork dish. An imu is a pit oven lined with hot rocks and banana leaves, while an emu is the Samoan above-ground version.
5. Cultural Dress and Decor
A luau will incorporate traditional Hawaiian dress and decor to create an immersive and welcoming atmosphere. You may see guests dressed in aloha shirts and muumuus, while tables are adorned with fresh flower leis and other Polynesian decorations.
6. Live Music
These luaus will also have live music featuring traditional Hawaiian instruments like the ukulele and the slack key guitar. This traditional music adds to the aloha spirit and cultural ambiance of the lūʻau.
7. A Beautiful, Natural Setting
Finally, they will take place in a breathtaking natural setting. The islands are known for stunning beaches and landscapes, and many luaus are held in outdoor venues surrounded by lush gardens, waterfalls, and ocean views.
Enjoy Authentic Hawaiian Culture at Mauka Warriors Luau
Now that you know what to look for in a traditional luau in Hawaii, it’s time to experience one for yourself! At Mauka Warriors Luau, we embrace Polynesian tradition to honor and share Hawaiian culture with our guests. Located at a beautiful vista overlooking Diamond Head and Honolulu, our lūʻau offers all the elements of a traditional and authentic Hawaiian experience.
Join us for an unforgettable celebration of Hawaiian culture and history. We can’t wait to share the aloha spirit with you!
