The Hukilau

About me:

The Hukilau is a traditional Hawaiian festival held in the fishing villages of old. A large net is cast into the sea then the villagers herd the fish and slowly pull the net to the shore. The feast that follows is meant to emphasize the spirit of family and community, or ‘ohana. Our mainland Hukilau is a net thrown out to the entire world, bringing in the lovers of “Polynesian Pop” or “Tiki” culture together for their own special celebration.

The history of Tiki, and its related Poly-Pop culture, goes back to the post Second World War period, when American war veterans, returning from their assorted South Pacific campaigns, brought back momentos, knick-knacks and (tall) tales of grass-skirts. Tiki culture became a world-wide phenomenon, as wood carvings, “exotica” music, and south-seas-themed cocktail lounges (i.e.the Trader Vic’s chain) began turning up in all corners of the globe.

The Hukilau began in 2002, when a few people on the Tiki Central message board discussed gathering at Trader Vic’s in Atlanta, GA. The first event was staged there later that year, featuring three days of sold-out entertainment and events, and sparking a fire to do more. Thus, an annual Tiki Gala was born!

In 2003, encouraged by other Tiki-philes - the group decided to honor the historic Mai Kai in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida moving Hukilau to a new location. The response was overwhelming, with attendees from all over the world – obviously The Hukilau had found a permanent home.

Hundreds of Tiki-philes (or Polyne-siacs, if you like), Lounge Lizards, Swanksters, Beatniks, etc. from The US, Canada, Hawaii and Europe come to The Hukilau each year to celebrate together and have the experience of s lifetime!! The Hukilau is the largest Tiki event on the East Coast!!

The Hukilau brings you amazing entertainment, exotic educational seminars and vendors of all things Polynesian set in the warm Florida Sun – come and Experience Polynesia in America’s Vacationland!!