The traditional feast, Luau, in Hawaii was once referred to as the ‘aha ‘aina and was used to celebrate important events like christenings, weddings, birthdays, coming of age and visitors. The modern term Luau may have originated from the great coed feasts of the Hawaiian King Kamehameha. In traditional Hawaii men and women were not allowed to eat together and all women were forbidden to eat certain kinds of foods in Hawaii.

In 1819, King Kamehameha abolished these laws and validated the change in tradition by having a symbolic feast with women invited. At this first feast one of the main dishes included the wrapping of chicken in the young leaves of the Taro plant and baking it in coconut milk. This dish was called ‘Luau’ and since it was one of the main courses of these feasts, they became known as ‘Luaus.’

Luaus are traditionally eaten on the ground, with food place on Ti Leaves that cover a type of woven mat called ‘Lauhala’. Leis are given to guests as they arrive at the Luau. The Lei is given as a display of affection and is a necklace or headdress of woven flowers or shells. Also when dressing up for the Luau, women place a flower behind their right or left ear. Placing the flower over the left ear indicates that one is taken or in a relationship and placing the flower over the right ear indicates that one is available.