Hawaiian luau

What it is

A tropical garden party. Leis, flowers, tiki torches and a limbo pole, with a feast of grilled food and tropical fruit. Works for all ages and any summer occasion.

Plan ahead

• Three weeks before: send invitations with a dress code of bright shirts and flowers.
• One week before: buy leis, grass skirts, tiki torches (or LED versions), palm leaves and a limbo set.
• The day before: marinate meat and prep fruit.

Set the scene

Palm leaves on the tables, hibiscus flowers, pineapples as centrepieces, tiki torches along the path, and a “tiki bar” for drinks.

Activities

• Limbo: how low can you go?
• Coconut bowling: bowl a coconut at plastic bottle pins.
• Pineapple relay: pass a pineapple down the line without hands.
• Hula lesson: sway hips, wave arms like the sea. Find a beginner video online.

Food and drink

• Huli-huli chicken (grilled with a pineapple and soy glaze)
• Pulled pork, rice, slaw
• Fruit platter: pineapple, mango, papaya
• Mocktails in pineapple cups; rum punch for adults
• Coconut cake

Tips

• Use LED torches near children and dry grass.
• Have shade and plenty of water.