Summer is coming to an end, but that doesn’t mean it’s time to say goodbye. There are many ways to make the most of the last few weeks of summer. One way is by throwing a beach party!
In this article, we will talk about two different styles of beach parties: Tiki (Polynesian) and Luau (Hawaiian). We will discuss their specifics, and how they can help you give your summer party a little something extra. Last but not least, you will get some extra tips to make your beach party even more special. Let’s get started!
Tiki vs Luau: What’s the difference?
Tiki is a word currently used to describe the 20th century American interpretation of the Polynesian culture. It was mainly popular in the 1940s and 1950s. The Tiki bars were originally created as a place for Americans to experience exotic cultures without traveling to the South Pacific Islands. To obtain this effect, Tiki masks and Tiki torches are often used – they easily help create an atmosphere that is reminiscent of tropical islands.
Luau is a Hawaiian feast that is celebrated with family and friends. It is a time to enjoy the company of loved ones and to honor the spirit of Aloha. The Luau feast typically includes traditional Hawaiian foods such as kalua pig, poi, lomi salmon, and haupia. The entertainment usually consists of hula dancing and fire knife dancing. The dancers wear colorful outfits made from flower garlands called leis.
The Hawaiian culture, like the Tiki culture, is an island culture. However, it’s very different. In fact, you could consider the Hawaiian culture a “melting pot” consisting of various other cultures. The first settlers in the islands were Polynesians who came from Tahiti, Samoa, and Tonga. They brought with them their language, religion, and customs. The next wave of settlers came from China and Japan in the 1800s. They introduced new food items to Hawaiians like rice and soy sauce. Hawaiian culture is also influenced by American culture because the United States annexed Hawaii.
The culture of Hawaiians is very diverse and rich with traditions, customs, beliefs, and practices. It includes the traditional hula dance which is a form of dance that was developed centuries ago.
Tropical Decor: Should I choose Tiki or Luau? Or both?
Both Tiki and Luau are great for parties because they both have an island theme, but they are different enough to offer different types of fun! If you are unsure which one to choose, consider this:
- Tiki might be better for parties with a bonfire (after all, the famous lava pit!), and Luau (associated with surfing) – for parties on the beach, or in venues close to the seaside (surfing!).
- Luau might be better for girls-only parties, as the gentle hula dance asks for grass skirts, flower garlands, etc. Tiki will be better for unisex parties, with fast, tribal music.
- Tiki parties might be more challenging to organize because of decor: where are you going to get those wooden totems from? Luau decor is easier, you just need pineapples, palm leaves, and flowers, to decorate.Nowadays, several party organizers mix both styles, opting for a general island one. Your guests probably won’t be able to tell which elements are Tiki and which are Luau, unless they’re personally interested in the cultures of Polynesia and Hawaii.
More tips to enhance your beach / sea / ocean themed party
There are many different ways to bring an ocean vibe to your party. One way is to bring in the ocean theme with seashells and starfish as decorations and food on the table. Another idea is to use sand as a table runner or even as an entire tablecloth with beach chairs that people can sit on while they eat their food. You can also use surfboards, palm tree cutouts, and lighthouses as decorations for your event too!
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