Host a Hawaiian Luau

If you're looking for an easy party idea that involves delicious and nutritious foods, a fun costume element, and can transport kids to another culture, a luau might be just the ticket. A luau is a traditional Hawaiian feast, started in 1819 to commemorate King Kamehameha II's abolishment of the religious practices which barred women from eating with men. Today, the word luau is synonomous with a party (for both genders!), and it often features traditional dress and tropical foods.

So fire up the grill,  break out the raffia and get crafty with flowers--it's time to learn how to throw your own luau!

DRESS

Grass Skirts

This is a fun way to dress up your party. While you can buy the plastic kind in most costume stores, it's more fun to make your own.

What You Need:

• Thin rope
• Raffia (found at your local craft store)

What You Do:

Lay your rope out on the floor. Take a strand of raffia and fold it in half. Place the looped end of the raffia on top of the rope, then take the two loose strands of raffia and thread them through the loop so it makes a tight knot around the rope. Repeat this process until your skirt has full coverage. Wear over bike shorts or bathing suit bottoms.

Leis

Nothing says a luau like a lei, the flower necklaces worn all over the islands. Here's how to make your own.

What You Need:

• Waxed dental floss
• Flowers: Commonly used are plumeria, orchids, habiscus, gardenia, and carnations--probably the cheapest option.
• Carpet needle
• Scissors

What You Do: