Music and dance are the heartbeat of every luau, weaving together the rich traditions and vibrant spirit of Hawaiian culture. They bring the islands to life, creating unforgettable experiences for guests. If you’re planning a luau, understanding the key elements of Hawaiian music and dance will help you craft a truly authentic and magical event.

The Role of Music in Luaus

Hawaiian music is more than just entertainment; it’s a storytelling medium that preserves the history, legends, and emotions of the islands. From the gentle strumming of the ukulele to the resonant sounds of the pahu drum, every note and rhythm contributes to the enchanting atmosphere of a luau.

Here are some traditional instruments to include in your luau:

1. Ukulele: This iconic string instrument produces cheerful and melodic tunes that are synonymous with Hawaiian music. It’s perfect for setting a relaxing and joyful mood.

2. Pahu Drum: A sacred instrument in Hawaiian culture, the pahu drum’s deep tones are often used to accompany hula kahiko (ancient hula).

3. Ipu: Made from gourds, the ipu provides a steady beat that complements hula performances.

4. Steel Guitar: The steel guitar adds a unique, soulful sound that evokes the tranquility of the islands.

Incorporating these instruments into your luau entertainment will transport your guests to the heart of Hawaii.

Hula: The Soul of Hawaiian Dance

No luau is complete without hula, the traditional Hawaiian dance that tells stories through graceful movements and gestures. Hula connects the performers and the audience to Hawaiian mythology, history, and the natural beauty of the islands.

There are two main types of hula to consider for your luau:

1. Hula Kahiko (Ancient Hula): This traditional form is performed with chanting and percussion instruments like the pahu and ipu. It has a ceremonial and spiritual tone, making it a captivating addition to any luau.

2. Hula ‘Auana (Modern Hula): Featuring more contemporary music and instruments like the ukulele and guitar, this style is lighter and more melodic, perfect for creating a festive atmosphere.

Interactive Dance Experiences

Engage your guests by incorporating interactive dance activities into your luau. Professional hula dancers can teach basic steps and hand movements, encouraging everyone to join in the fun. These experiences not only entertain but also create lasting memories.

Planning Your Luau Entertainment

When planning your luau, consider blending live music performances with hula shows to create a dynamic and immersive experience. Here are some tips:

• Start with a Warm Welcome: Greet your guests with traditional Hawaiian music played on the ukulele or steel guitar as they arrive.

• Feature a Live Hula Show: Include both hula kahiko and hula ‘auana to showcase the diversity of Hawaiian dance.

• End with a Spectacular Finale: Conclude the evening with a thrilling fire knife dance or a group hula performance.

Celebrate Hawaiian Culture Through Music and Dance

Music and dance are integral to the spirit of aloha. By incorporating these elements into your luau, you’ll create a celebration that honors Hawaiian traditions and leaves a lasting impression on your guests.

Visit IslandersLuau.com to explore authentic Hawaiian entertainment options for your next event. Let’s bring the rhythm of the islands to life!

Planning the ultimate luau party involves thoughtful preparation to capture the authentic spirit of Hawaii. Drawing inspiration from Islanders Luau's comprehensive services, here's a guide to creating a memorable and immersive luau experience:

1. Set the Scene with Authentic Decorations

Transform your venue into a tropical paradise with authentic luau-themed decorations. Incorporate elements like tiki statues, vibrant floral arrangements, and island-inspired props to create an immersive atmosphere. Islanders Luau offers impressive authentic luau-themed decorations and party rentals to help you achieve this look.

2. Delight Guests with Hawaiian-Style Catering

A luau isn't complete without traditional Hawaiian cuisine. Feature dishes such as Barbecue Teriyaki Chicken, Hawaiian Fried Rice, and Kalua Pulled Pork. For an authentic touch, consider an on-site BBQ Hawaiian grill to greet your guests with the aroma of freshly prepared island fare.

3. Engage with Traditional Entertainment

Enhance the festive atmosphere with traditional Hawaiian entertainment. Hire beautiful hula dancers to captivate your guests and consider including Samoan fire knife dancers for added excitement. Live island bands and experienced emcees can further enrich the experience, ensuring a smooth and engaging event.

4. Incorporate Interactive Activities

Offer hands-on activities to immerse guests in Hawaiian culture. Set up Hawaiian “Villages” where attendees can participate in dance lessons, luau crafts, and interact with island entertainers. These activities provide fun and educational experiences for guests of all ages.

5. Plan a Traditional Pig Display

A highlight of many luaus is the traditional Kalua pig. Feature a whole-roasted pig. This presentation adds authenticity and is sure to leave a lasting impression on your guests.

6. Choose the Right Venue

Select a venue that complements your luau theme, whether it's a backyard, beachside location, or community hall. Ensure there's ample space for dining, entertainment, and activities. If you're unsure where to host your luau, consider reaching out to professionals like Islanders Luau for suggestions.

7. Coordinate Attire and Ambiance

Encourage guests to dress in Hawaiian attire, such as aloha shirts, grass skirts, or floral dresses, to enhance the theme. Provide leis upon arrival to welcome guests and set the tone. Use ambient lighting like tiki torches or string lights to create a warm, tropical atmosphere.

8. Attend to the Details

Ensure all elements, from the sound system to lighting and scheduling, are meticulously planned. A polished, experienced emcee can keep the event flowing smoothly, and high-quality sound and lighting will enhance performances and presentations.

By focusing on these aspects, you can host a luau that is both entertaining and culturally enriching, leaving your guests with unforgettable memories. If you are looking for professionals to handle this for you, reach out to Islanders Luau at 888-907-3854 or visit www.islandersluau.com to get more ideas.

When it comes to experiencing the vibrant traditions and rich culture of Polynesia, nothing compares to a luau. In Southern California, Islanders Luau is setting the standard for authentic, unforgettable luau experiences. Whether you’re planning a corporate event, wedding, birthday party, or family gathering, Islanders Luau is the go-to destination for a celebration that combines food, entertainment, and culture.

Why Islanders Luau Stands Out

1. Authentic Polynesian Entertainment
Islanders Luau offers an immersive experience that showcases the heart and soul of Polynesian culture. From traditional hula dances to the exhilarating fire knife performances, every detail is thoughtfully designed to captivate and entertain. The performers are not just entertainers but cultural ambassadors, bringing the spirit of the islands to life.

2. Exceptional Catering Services
A luau wouldn’t be complete without a feast! Islanders Luau serves up a delectable menu inspired by the islands, featuring dishes like slow-roasted Kalua pork, fresh tropical fruits, Hawaiian-style chicken, and more. Each dish is crafted with care, blending traditional flavors with a modern twist to delight every guest.

3. Customizable Packages for Every Occasion
Whether you’re hosting an intimate gathering or a large event, Islanders Luau offers customizable packages tailored to your needs. From full-scale productions with live musicians and elaborate stage setups to more casual backyard luaus, they ensure your event is both seamless and memorable.

The Islanders Luau Experience

Imagine the warm ocean breeze as you step into a world of Polynesian magic. Islanders Luau transforms any venue into an island paradise with stunning decor, vibrant costumes, and enchanting music. Your guests will be transported to the islands without ever leaving Southern California.

Some of the highlights include:

• Lei Greetings: Start your event with a warm Hawaiian welcome as guests receive fresh flower or kukui nut leis.

• Live Polynesian Music: Enjoy the soothing sounds of ukuleles and drums that set the perfect ambiance.

• Cultural Storytelling: Through dance and narration, Islanders Luau performers share the legends and history of Polynesia.

• Interactive Hula Lessons: Get everyone involved and learn the basics of this graceful dance.

Why Choose Islanders Luau?

Southern California is home to many event services, but Islanders Luau is a standout for its dedication to authenticity, professionalism, and top-tier customer service. They are not just entertainers; they are cultural curators who ensure every guest leaves with a newfound appreciation for Polynesian traditions.

IslandersLuau.com: Your Gateway to Paradise

Planning your perfect luau has never been easier. IslandersLuau.com provides all the information you need to book your event, explore package options, and browse stunning photos from past celebrations. The website is user-friendly, making it simple to bring the magic of Polynesia to your doorstep.

Book Your Luau with Islanders Luau:

• “Best Luau in Southern California”: Islanders Luau tops the list for its exceptional reviews and unbeatable offerings.

• “Hawaiian Party Entertainment Southern California” to find the most authentic cultural experience for your event.   

Whether you are searching “Luau Catering Services Near Me”, "Catering Service Near Me", "Catering near me"- for a top-notch food and service, choose Islanders Luau today. Make your next event unforgettable with Islanders Luau. From the flavors to the flair, every detail is crafted to transport you to a tropical paradise. Go to islandersluau.com/contact to book your event today and learn more the best luau in Southern California!

Hosting a luau isn’t just about the food and decor—it’s about creating a truly immersive experience for your guests. At Islanders Luau, we offer a variety of engaging activities that not only entertain but also provide a glimpse into the rich traditions and culture of Polynesia. Here are the top 8 activities that will make your luau unforgettable!

1. Samoan Coconut Village

Discover the art of breaking open coconuts and learn about their versatile uses in the beautiful islands of Samoa. Guests will be amazed by the skill and tradition involved in coconut preparation. As a treat, sample the sweet and creamy Koko rice, a delightful Samoan dessert. This activity is both educational and delicious!

2. Fiji Foto Booth

Capture memories in style with our fun and decorative Fiji Foto Booth. Equipped with playful props and an attendant to guide the fun, this booth provides up to two hours of non-stop excitement. Strike a pose, and take home a personalized photostrip featuring your event name or logo. It’s the perfect keepsake for your guests!

3. Maori Tattoo Village

Dive into the artistry of Polynesian-style tattoos at the Maori Tattoo Village. Guests can choose their favorite temporary tattoo design, inspired by traditional Maori symbols. This interactive activity is perfect for all ages, offering a unique way to embrace Polynesian culture while adding a touch of personal flair to your luau experience.

4. Pago Pago Palm Weaving Village

Engage in the traditional Samoan art of weaving haku headbands with palm leaves at the Pago Pago Palm Weaving Village. This hands-on activity allows guests to create their own unique piece of Polynesian craftsmanship, a wearable reminder of their time at your event.

5. Upolu Ukulele Village

Celebrate the joy of music with a visit to the Upolu Ukulele Village. Here, guests can learn to play a simple Hawaiian song on the ukulele. This fun, interactive experience is perfect for all ages, leaving guests strumming along to beautiful island melodies and connecting with the heart of Hawaiian music.

6. Hawaiian Hula Village

Step into the rhythm of the islands with a lesson in traditional Hawaiian dance at the Hawaiian Hula Village. Our talented Wahines will teach guests simple hula moves, culminating in a beautiful dance to classic Hawaiian tunes like the Hukilau. This activity is a graceful and energizing way to embrace Hawaiian culture.

7. Lahaina Lei Making Village

Join us in crafting the ultimate symbol of Aloha at the Lahaina Lei Making Village. Guests can string beautiful silk flowers into stunning leis, creating their own piece of Hawaiian tradition to wear and cherish. This hands-on activity is perfect for all ages and adds a colorful touch to your luau.

8. Nu'uli Name Tags Village

Personalization meets culture at the Nu'uli Name Tags Village. Guests receive a unique name tag featuring their name in both Hawaiian and English. It’s a simple yet meaningful way to help everyone feel connected to the spirit of the islands while adding a personal touch to the event.

By incorporating these fun and educational activities into your luau, you’ll create a dynamic event that celebrates the vibrant cultures of Polynesia while leaving your guests with unforgettable memories.

Ready to Elevate Your Event?

At Islanders Luau, we specialize in bringing the authentic spirit of the islands to your special occasion. Contact us today to book your luau package and explore these activities and more!

Request a quote at contact to learn more and start planning your perfect luau.

We had more luaus in 2022 than we have ever done! We were very happy to welcome Vivian on board as our General Manager. Vivian was about to graduate with an MBA from BYU’s distinguished Marriott School of Business. All of the high tech companies were after him, but he felt like the challenge of running our complex catering/entertainment business “with a smile on his face” would be a lot more fun! He and his wife had their own catering restaurant before moving to the mainland to get an education. When we asked him how he is handling the pressure, he laughed at us and said, “I can work 20 hours a day when needed—no problem!” Immigrants have a work ethic like no other, and we are grateful to have him on board! We are getting a lot of positive feedback from our clients as well. Thank you, Vivian!

Because of Covid we had almost no luaus until mid-April….when SoCal’s desire to party suddenly exploded! Then we had the challenge of training a very large staff of new workers, since we had lost nearly everyone during 2020’s pandemic. It was a pretty sharp learning curve, but our new workers did their best and we successfully pulled off 197 luaus in the next 8 months. We ended the year having put together more luaus than we have ever done. We are exhausted and ready for the slow season!

All of our workers were stunned to see so many Tesla’s all in one place! I wonder if Irvine, CA has the highest number of Tesla’s per capita of any SoCal city? #Tesla

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Because of Covid, nearly all of our December luaus cancelled, so we were free to perform for our church's Covid-safe Drive-by Christmas Party. Our grand-daughter, accompanied by the Chief, warmed the hearts of over 200 people who drove up to our house to see the show. We decorated our front yard with a Mele Kalikimaka theme, and encouraged folks to take an Almond Joy bar (with some hand sanitizer) on a curbside table.

Maril’s mom, Susiana, started Islanders Luau back in 1971, and at the age of 79 she is still doing things over the top! She took us to her elegant country club for our birthday dinner this week. She surprised us by decorating our table with Hawaiian statues, surrounded by bird of paradise from her yard, guava, and lush greenery to create beautiful centerpieces. She also brought her ukulele and serenaded us with a couple of island songs and a rousing Happy Birthday To You! Her creativity, talent, hard work, and desire to impress never cease to amaze us!

Our biggest luau of the Covid summer was a drive-through luau where people didn't have to get out of their cars. Kind of like a ride at Disneyland--think the Autopia ride--only everyone drove Range Rovers and Teslas instead of mini cars. Instead of seeing automated characters and Mickey Mouse, they saw the real thing--hula girls, fire-dancers, and island musicians, spread out throughout the "ride". At the end of the ride, they received a big family sized bag of freshly grilled teriyaki chicken, pulled pork, and more, topped with a lei! Everyone in their community took their feast home and ate it in the shade of their very own manicured front yards, with neighbors within shouting distance. This is our ninth year entertaining and feeding 600-700 people at  Talega of San Clemente. They had cancelled it this year, because of Covid, and then the Chief got very creative!  #Hawaiiancatering #hawaiiandancers#hawaiianfood #luauideas #hoaideas

Not only are we having more luaus than ever, but we have been doing a wedding nearly every weekend. It is amazing how many memorials we do, and of course big milestone celebrations for people, as well as more and more swanky corporate events! The pressure is on, because we know that each luau is a very BIG deal to our client. They are inviting the most important people in their lives and they expect us to sweep them off their feet. Maril loves the challenge!

Panesi Afualo was the lead musician for the Islanders back in the day! He was an amazing guitarist and lead vocalist, wrote and arranged songs for us, and accompanied all of the dances with live music. He was a masterful emcee who always had guests roaring with laughter. He was a self-taught guitarist who started his musical career with a garage band in Santa Ana California, back in the 60’s. He went to BYU-Hawaii where he played volleyball and was voted MVP of the National Championship Tournament. To make ends meet, he worked at the Polynesian Cultural Center where he became the lead musician for the their famous night show. After graduation his sister, Susiana, hired him as the lead musician for her Islanders show, which kept him busy for the next 30 years. When we realized that customer's often didn't have the budget for a full band, he recorded all of the parts for his music, part by part, into his synthesizer, and he became a one-man band. Our kids affectionately called it the Pan Band. Panesi trained his children musically and often brought them along to back him up. He was diagnosed with thyroid cancer, but continued performing for us for another 14 years while he battled the cancer. His last show was only a few weeks before he passed in the summer of 2015. He is a legend in our family and in our business.

We thought we were pretty creative when we came up with our "Fiji Foto Booth". So, we were totally surprised when we arrived at the airport in Fiji this month, and they had their own Fiji photo op wall (and floor) mural for travelers to snap a photo.  It was incredibly creative. By placing your hand on the wall, where the post is painted, and setting our luggage on the floor, where the bridge is painted, It looks like we are really on a suspended bridge! #PhotoBooth #LuauEntertainment 

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We love the unusual fruits that we find at the flea market in Samoa. Green bananas, or fa'i, are boiled or baked and eaten with tasty palusami and various meats. The white fiber in the basket is used to squeeze coconut milk out of freshly grated coconut. The leaves next to it are used to wrap food in before it is baked, kind of like how we use aluminum foil. Many fruits are absolutely huge--like avocados, pineapples, and papayas. Our favorite, and the food that all of our family requested that we bring home for them, is Koko Samoa. Samoan cocoa beans are grown on a tree, then roasted, mashed, and placed in a styrofoam cup, which turns as hard as a rock, but when you grate it and boil it, it makes a unique and fabulous chocolate! We Bring the Islands To You!  #IslandFood #KokoSamoaApia, Samoa

A little over a week ago we were in Fiji for a 13 hour layover, so we hired a taxi and packed our schedule! We enjoyed a 100% authentic show at the Fiji Culture Village. We discovered a new dance that our customers will love, and we found that Fijians are incredibly friendly and wonderful people. We Bring the Islands To You!  #LuauEntertainment

In Samoa they drive on the opposite side of the road--the left side-- like Europeans. Last week when we first got our rental car in Apia, Samoa, Maril only got confused twice. On our first right hand turn, we ended up going head to head with an oncoming truck. Good thing the speed limit is 25 mph in town and everyone's brakes worked. On his first left hand turn he made the same mistake, but his co-pilot quickly corrected him.
It is pretty interesting that Samoans drove on the right side of the road up until they switched directions one day in 2009.
Wikipedia explains, "A plan to move to driving on the left was first announced by the Samoan government in September 2007. Prime Minister Tuilaepa Aiono Sailele Malielegaoi said that the purpose of adopting left-hand traffic was to allow Samoans to use cheaper right-hand-drive vehicles sourced from Australia, New Zealand or Japan, and so that the large number of Samoans living in Australasia could drive on the same side of the road when they visited their country of origin. He aimed to reduce reliance on expensive, left-hand-drive imports from America..... at that time, 14,000 of Samoa's 18,000 vehicles were designed for right-hand driving."
Can you imagine the chaos that we would experience here in America if the government decided to switch us over to the left? The Samoans figured it out though, and had a pretty smooth transition. The speed limit in Samoa is 25 mph in town and 35 mph outside of town--which helps--especially since American Samoa still drives on the right. The islands are so spectacular that you really don't mind driving slow. We Bring the Islands To You!  #SamoanStrength

As detailed in previous (see below) blog posts about the children of Luteru and Siasaga Afualo, their children used their talents to perform across Southern California beginning in the 70s. The music played at the shows was a mix of old-time island favorites and music they wrote themselves. The original set-up was done majoritively by the family with Panesi Afualo as lead singer & guitartist, harmony by Sone Afualo and on bass, with Tomasina on the drums, Susiana as vocals and ukulele. Other siblings and their own children were equally called upon to step in by playing the keyboard, the pake drum or perhaps pick up a ukulele.

"Chief Luteru" the owner and CEO of Islanders Luau, officially became a Matai, or Chief, in 2006, in his grandfather's small village of Tufutafoe, Savaii, Samoa, with the traditional Saofa'i Ava Ceremony. (Ava is the Samoan word for Kava, which is Tongan and is much more commonly used.) The official title given to Maril by the village elders, is “Chief Afualo Luteru”.

Read the captions accompanying the below pictures for details of this incredible experience in Maril's life.

The village chiefs

The village of Tufutafoe was where Maril's grandfather was born in 1905. All of the people in the village are Afualos. These are some of the distant relatives that serve on the village council who were invited inside the fale, for the ceremony. They were completely comfortable sitting cross-legged on the mats for the lengthy ceremony.

Uncle Nesi

Susiana’s Uncle Nesi has lived in the tiny village of Tufutafoe, Samoa, his whole life. Nesi is one of the village high chiefs. He looks just like Maril's Uncle Sone, who used to be the base player for the Islanders band in the 1970's and 80's.

The 'Ava Stick

The taulealea presents Maril with his kava stick. Each chief or matai of the village is presented with the prospective chief’s kava stick during the ceremony. 

The kava bowl

The Tufutafoe village kava bowl was much simpler than the fancy kava bowls which are sold to tourists at the market in Apia, Samoa.

This boy, a tualealea, is scooping the kava drink out with a coconut shell for each of the village elders to take a sip. The rest of the village sat around the outside of the Fale tele, to respectfully observe the lengthy ceremony.

Chief Afualo Luteru

The ceremony was a meaningful, humbling experience for Maril as he became one of the village chiefs. 

Once in a lifetime

After the Kava stick was presented to Maril, a tea was made of the kava and each of the chief's took a sip of it from a coconut shell. Susiana was sitting next to her son, Maril, proud that he would now represent her family here in California.

Chief Luteru's son taught himself to do the fire dance at a very young age!

Here are some of our favorite shots taken at luaus in the last couple of years!

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