How to Plan a Luau Party

Plan your next party as a luau to bring the tropics to your backyard! A luau party is a festive, casual atmosphere that appeals to guests of all ages. Luau parties can be held outdoors year-round in warm climates, though summer is the ideal time for a luau-themed party. It is always fun to suggest that your guests come dressed in Hawaiian attire, so plan to have extra costume apparel such as grass skirts and Hawaiian shirts available for your guests. Decorate your space with lots of color and show off your carefree attitude in true aloha spirit.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Pineapple, pork and other traditional luau foods
• Candles
• Grass skirts and Hawaiian shirts
• Hawaiian-themed decorations and favors
• Coconuts
• Leis

Consider Common Luau Essentials

1. Buy decorative essentials such as plastic palm trees. You can easily inflate the air filled type to enhance the island ambiance of your party.

2. Play beach-themed music at your luau. You'll easily find vintage classics such as the Beach Boys and Don Ho at most music stores.

3. Prepare your food menu using a Polynesian theme. The term "luau" refers to a great feast, guests will likely expect a buffet style meal.

4. Include roast pork, an essential ingredient for any luau, when meal planning. Pineapple glazed ham might be a good option for a low maintenance dish.

Find Creative Ideas for Decorating on a Budget

5. Shop local party stores to find decorations with a Hawaiian theme. If you are on a budget, many inexpensive dollar stores have table and overhead decorations.

6. Create homemade leis to cut down on extra expenses. To make truly authentic leis, use tropical orchids.

7. Purchase coconuts for your luau party. You can drain then use the coconut milk for adult-themed drinks such as piña coladas. Additionally, use the coconut shells as a unique way to serve your drinks.

8. Set up torches with citronella oil. The torches provide lighting for your common areas while keeping the bugs at bay.

9. Float candles in clear acrylic bowls for an inexpensive lighting option.

10. Display unique centerpieces at your child's luau. Live goldfish in bowls as centerpieces can be used as prizes for the party games.

11. Consider using coconut shells filled with coconut scented candles. They make quick centerpieces that smell great.

Tips & Warnings

• Children's parties can be held earlier in the day, while an adult luau is best held at night.
• Create your guest list carefully. Choose fun and outgoing guests to help set a comfortable atmosphere.
• Check the weather forecast prior to your luau. Preparing a back up plan in the event of inclement weather may be essential.