by Lisa Doherty

Created on: July 04, 2008

Do not fret if you want to throw a fantastic luau and have no clue how to dig the underground pit for the whole pig that needs to roast in there for several days! You can still throw a great Hawaiian feast and party just the same! Planning your luau is not that daunting of a task, so here are some great ways to celebrate the splendor and festivities of the islands from the comfort of your own backyard; and, the best part is that it does not involve hunting wild pigs for the evening's menu!

MENU: Want to serve traditional Hawaiian fare? Make sure that Kalua Pig is on the menu. A traditional favorite, substitute pork butt for the whole pig, but make sure that it is on the list. Other traditional items such as Poi, sweet potatoes, and Haupia take little preparation but can be a great authentic addition to your party. You can find traditional Hawaiian recipes for your luau at http://gohawaii.about.com/cs/luaurecipes/l/aa041902a .htm.

MUSIC: A simple CD player and some speakers can transform your backyard into a hula haven! No matter what kind of traditional Hawaiian music you end up buying, and I would suggest going to a book and music exchange or second hand music shop for this make sure that your repertoire includes Don Ho singing "Tiny Bubbles." It's a classic! Additionally, ukulele music is another option or simply having one that your guests can strum might awaken hidden talents that a little Mai Tai might reveal!

DECORATIONS: The luau theme is such a popular party idea that you should have no trouble getting coconut bras and grass skirts for everyone. Also, Tiki torches, Tiki gods and inflatable palm trees will go nicely with Hawaiian themed lights. Pineapples and assorted fruits in bowls make for great edible decorations. They also serve as fantastic gifts for the winners of the games you will play later. I would suggest the site www.orientaltradingcompany.com because it has such a great assortment of island, Hawaiian, and luau themed decorations.

FLOWERS: Depending on how much you want to spend, you can go hog wild and get traditional leis from a local florist or you can buy the fake ones from a retail shop or online company. Depending on the number of people, I would suggest fake leis for party goers and real flowers for table centerpieces and around the luau buffet. Orchids and hibiscus will be difficult to find and very expensive, but if you speak to the florist and let them know what you are doing, I bet that they can do fruit and flower arrangements that will fit your budget and look divine!

GAMES: Make up your own or use traditional ones! Ancient Hawaiians would have held foot races or had javelin throws at a target. You could modernize these concepts by making the race a three-legged one or throw pool noodles at a target. Other suggestions for games would, of course, be the limbo, hula contests, and the ever popular "Wacky Tacky Tourist" where guests get a bag of loud shirts, madras shorts, white socks, sandals, and the like. The one who dresses first is the winner. That makes for great pictures to pass around to friends and family! Check out this website for other great Hawaiian games: http://www.alohafriendsluau.com/game10.html

The Hawaiian luau is all about family, friends, and the celebration of everything that islanders hold dear. In all the fun and excitement, make sure that your guests know that above all else, you are continuing this tradition because you value them and all the great things they bring to your world.

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