Waikiki Daily

Attending an authentic Hawaiian Luau is a great way to learn a bit about Hawaiian culture, and Hawaiian history and enjoy dancing, entertainment, music, and tasty Hawaiian dishes. Hawaiians will host Luau’s to celebrate a wide range of occasions including birthdays and graduations to weddings. A Luau is an extension of the close-knit and friendly islander lifestyle that forms the basis of the rich Hawaiian culture. As tourists come to Hawaii seeking to immerse themselves in the culture, the Luau has expanded to an all-purpose celebration. In this latest Oahu Travel Guide article, Oahu Things to do: History of the Hawaiian Luau, we’ll provide you with all the rich history and origin of this amazing activity. History of the Luau: Before the 19th century, special occasions were celebrated with an aha’aina, which means “gathering meal.” Hawaiians believed that these ceremonial gatherings were a way to honor their gods through unique cultural dishes and practices, while also celebrating the unity of the people brought together by the event. During this time in Hawaiian history, men and women were not allowed to eat together. Men and women were separated during mealtimes at aha’aina and even ate different foods. Women of all classes and common folk were also forbidden to eat certain Hawaiian delicacies such as traditional reef fish, moi pork, and bananas. Only the “Alii” or “chiefs” of ancient Hawaii and the kings were allowed to indulge in these foods. This all changed in 1819 when King Kamehameha II ended the religious traditions of the aha’aina that segregated people during meal times by hosting a feast for everyone to enjoy the Pacific’s greatest flavors. Men, women, children, and royalty all dined and celebrated as one – giving way to a new feast: the present-day Luau During these first Luau events, people traditionally sat on the