One of the most famous traditions that the rest of the world has adapted from Hawaii is the Hawaiian luau. A Hawaiian luau is a traditional Hawaiian feast that features a lot of different types of Hawaiian foods. The most commonly served Hawaiian dishes in Hawaiian luaus include the world famous kalua pig, lomi salmon, poi, haupia, and opihi as well as beer and other alcoholic drinks. There is also a lot of entertainment during a Hawaiian luau, oftentimes in the form of local Hawaiian music being played live and accompanied by hula dancing. Hawaiian locals relate to a luau in the same sense that the rest of the world relates to parties, which explains why there are luaus for many different occasions. Luaus nowadays are often organized and thrown for weddings, birthdays, graduations, and engagements.
The name “luau” dates back to at least 1856, according to Pukui & Elbert, when it was used by the Pacific Commercial Advertiser. Prior to that, feasts of similar nature were referred to as “paina” or “ahaaina”. The term “luau” actually sprung from the local Hawaiian dish that uses taro tops, coconut milk, and chicken that is always served during feasts and celebrations. Thus the name of the dish was later adapted and used to refer to the event or feast itself.