How to Throw a Luau
If you're looking for a new way to have fun in the sun, here’s how to bring the beauty of the islands into your own backyard with a festive luau party!
Decorations
Decorate your yard with tiki torches and citronella candles (to keep away those pesky summer pests!), as well as palm fronds and upright surfboards. A great centerpiece idea for your patio tables is an arrangement of orchids and bamboo stalks in brightly colored vases. Your local florist should have some inexpensive tropical choices. To set the mood, sprinkle your soundtrack with some Hawaiian songs. It’ll add spice and authenticity to the event. Also, leis and grass skirts are a classic way to set the theme of the party. Buy an assortment of flower leis and pass them to your guests as they enter. Also, make sure to tell your guests it's a luau so they arrive in their Island finest!
Refreshments
Set up a drinks table close to the entrance with several blenders of everyone’s favorites. Piña coladas, strawberry daiquiris, frozen margaritas and the popular Polynesian mai tai will all look great decorated with fruit and cocktail parasols. Don't forget the virgin varieties for those not indulging! A punch bowl can also come in handy. For a more interesting look, cut a watermelon in half horizontally and, using a melon baller, hollow out the inside. Fill it with the punch of your choice and drop in some sliced citrus to float on the surface. Keep the punch chilled with multicolored artificial ice cubes. Save that watermelon to serve or to garnish your glasses!
If you’re feeling daring, preparing authentic Hawaiian food is a great way to display your culinary skills. Baked mahi mahi, char siu, chicken teriyaki, and fried rice are all delicious options. For dessert, consider a refreshing parfait, stacked with juicy melon, mixed berries, nuts, and a topping of fresh whipped cream. Whatever food you prepare, set it up buffet-style to encourage your guests to relax and mingle. Hawaii is all about leisure.
Now that you’ve got all your luau ingredients mixed together, it’s time to sit back, unwind, and serve up some island fun!
