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Oahu Private Tours
8 Hrs. Daily From Oahu Resorts & Pier
Private Guide & Tour Vehicle For Your Group
$1,050
An Introduction To A Luau
Oahu is the perfect destination for a truly unique experience. From relaxing on pristine beaches to exploring ancient Hawaiian cultural sites, there’s something for everyone. But no trip to Oahu would be complete without experiencing one of its famous luaus.
Most luaus proceed like this: First, there is a lei greeting upon arrival followed by a meet-and-greet photo op with the Polynesian performers. Next, visitors are guided to their seats and tropical beverages are served. Once guests have settled in, the pig is removed from the imu (underground oven), filling the air with the delicious smell of roasted kalua pork. Some luaus also have traditional Hawaiian games that can be played by guests of all ages. The food is then served, usually buffet-style. The remainder of the evening is spent enjoying the food and entertainment which includes live music, hula dancing, and a fire knife performance.
Lei Greetings
In ancient times, Hawaiians gave lei to their local ali‘i (chiefs) as a sign of affection and loyalty. If wishing to make peace, warring ali’i would sit side-by-side weaving lei for each other.
Hula Dance
The hula was originally a form of worship to the gods performed by highly trained men. It was banned by missionaries in the 1800s but was still performed in secret until the regulation was loosened in 1851.
Fun Fact
Ancient Hawaiians believed that the heavier a woman, especially a chiefess, the more beautiful she was. Being well-fed denoted her wealth and rank.
Lu’aus are a must-see for several reasons:
- Cultural experience: Lu’aus offer an authentic and immersive Hawaiian cultural experience, including traditional music, dance, and storytelling.
- Unique cuisine: They feature a variety of delicious, traditional Hawaiian dishes that are difficult to find elsewhere.
- Entertainment: The performances at a lu’au are entertaining and engaging, making it a memorable event for visitors of all ages.
- Socializing: Lu’aus are an excellent opportunity to meet and interact with locals and other visitors in a friendly and welcoming environment.
A typical lu’au offers a wide range of traditional Hawaiian dishes, including:
- Kalua pig: A whole pig is cooked in an underground oven called an imu, resulting in tender, smoky meat.
- Poi: A starchy dish made from taro root, pounded and mixed with water.
- Lomi lomi salmon: A cold salad made from raw, diced salmon, tomatoes, and onions, seasoned with Hawaiian sea salt.
- Poke: Raw, marinated fish, usually ahi (tuna), served as an appetizer.
- Laulau: Pork, chicken, or fish wrapped in taro or ti leaves and steamed.
- Haupia: A coconut milk-based dessert with a consistency similar to gelatin.
- Fresh fruits: Locally-grown fruits like pineapple, papaya, and mango are often served.
Lu’aus often cover various aspects of Hawaiian culture and history, including:
- Ancient Hawaiian myths and legends: Storytelling is an integral part of a lu’au, often featuring tales of gods, goddesses, and heroes from Hawaiian mythology.
- Hula: Performances include both traditional and modern hula dances, accompanied by live music, chanting, and singing.
- Traditional instruments: Lu’aus showcase various Hawaiian musical instruments, such as the ukulele, slack-key guitar, and traditional percussion instruments like the ipu (gourd drum).
- Cultural customs: Guests can learn about traditional Hawaiian practices, such as lei-making, tattooing, and navigating by the stars.
Attending a lu’au is a great way to immerse yourself in Hawaiian culture and enjoy a memorable evening of food, entertainment, and learning.
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