How to throw a Hawaiian Luau Party

We love this Hawaiian theme because it’s colorful, fun and suitable for all kinds of parties. If you’re wondering how to throw a Hawaiian luau party, we’ve put together our top tips.

Whether you are having a Birthday Party, Kids Party, Beach Party or just a nice get together with friends, this is one of the most fun parties to host.

Planning a Hawaiian Party doesn’t have to be difficult By choosing a few key elements and keeping it simple, you can easily put together a great Hawaii themed party. Think bright colors, sunshine and lei flowers.

How to throw a Hawaiian Luau Party.

Location is key

When you’re thinking about how to throw a Hawaiian party, location is key! Although you Possible throw a Hawaiian party indoors, this theme really comes to life outdoors. If you have space in your garden, that’s perfect. If you are lucky enough to have a pool, then awesome!! The tropical backdrop is at your disposal!

Another good alternative location is the beach. There’s nothing better than the sound of waves in the background! Make sure you tell guests to bring hats and sunscreen!

Hawaiian Party Dress Code

This is a super easy party dress for! The default can be flower leis and grass skirtsbut I think most women are more comfortable with a tropical style clothing.

Think bright flowers, tropical palm leaves and summer patterns.

For men, a classic Hawaiian shirts is a simple dress, combined with some plain shorts or chinos! You want your Guests to feel comfortable and these options are a great way to go with the Hawaiian theme.

Flower Headbands

A flower headband can add an extra tropical touch to your outfit. Even a simple dress can be dressed up with some flowers in your hair.

A DIY flower crown is very easy to make and only requires a few materials. Get the floral tape, scissors, craft wire, wire or pliable twine, and flowers and plants.

Tip: Check out our DIY flower headband guide here.

Set the Scene for your Hawaiian Luau Party

A Hawaiian Party should be lively and lively.

To create this feeling, use flower garland and brightly colored cloth that will add layers to your styling.

Other great styling props include beach umbrellas, grass skirts, lei garlands hanging from trees.

Tip: Try creating height in your style by incorporating some hanging ornaments.

Fairy lights strung between trees or in a jar as a centerpiece create a beautiful atmosphere.

Hawaiian Party Food and Drink

In Hawaiian “Luau” means feast so food is really important at this party!

Here are some ideas that really fit the theme:

Main Course

• Roast Pork: A fire pit roasted pig would be AMAZING at this party. If that’s too much work, then pulled pork or barbeque pork are really good.
• Fish: Salmon is a great main course and if you already have a BBQ, then pop that in there too!
• Pizza: Hawaiian pizza with ham and pineapple is a firm favorite. Pizza is a great choice for children’s parties.
• Kebabs: Combine vegetables with chicken for a tasty option.

Side dishes

• Fruit: Fruit, fruit and more fruit!
• Vegetables: Sweet potatoes and yams are traditional Hawaiian luau foods. Place them on the BBQ in the foil.
• Bread: Heat Hawaiian sweet rolls to serve with food.

Hawaiian Party Drinks

Most summer drink recipes work well for this theme, especially with a fruit vibe.

I love this recipe for Sparkling Fruit Punch (although I have been known to substitute Sparkling water for Prosecco!).

Other ideas that work well include:

• Cocktails: Serve tropical cocktails like Mai Tais and piña coladas. They can be made as “mocktails” if you like.
• Smoothies: Blend fruit for smoothies.
• Hawaiian Coffee: Serve Hawaiian coffee after dessert.
• Rim the Glasses: Use shredded coconut to rim the glasses. First, coat the edge with sugar water then dip in crushed coconut shavings.
• Volcano Drink: Make a smoking volcano drink by adding dry ice. Place a few pieces in a punch bowl or use dry ice swizzle sticks to put them directly into guests’ glasses.

If you’re planning a themed party, check out our Parties Page for tons of inspiration on all kinds of themes. Be sure to also check out our FREE Party Planning Checklist to help your party really go down with a swing!