What is a Luau?

The word "Luau" originally referred just to the leaves of the Hawaiian taro plant. It later came to refer to dishes prepared with the taro leaves, and finally to the feasts at which the dishes were served. In preparation for a luau, pigs are wrapped in taro leaves then buried in an underground fire pit (known as an "imu" in Hawaiian)for cooking.

Luaus (or feasts) have been popular in Hawaii since ancient times. It was time that the community would get together and share thier harvest from the fields and from the ocean. In modern times, Hawaiians hold luaus to celebrate birthdays (especially a baby's 1st birthday), for wedding banquets, anniversaries, graduations, etc.

Visitors that came to Hawaii, such as Robert Louis Stevenson, were treated to lavish luaus offered by the King of Hawaii. Hawaiians have carried on this tradition and invite visitors to attend their luaus.

There are now several commercial luaus throughout the islands. The Polynesian Cultural Center in Laie, Hawaii hosts up to three different Hawaiian Luaus per day. During the summer months, even three luaus does not meet the demand of visitors, so you may want to book your luau tickets as early as possible.