Hawaiian-themed birthday parties are versatile.
A number of variations can be borrowed from the traditional Hawaiian-themed birthday party. While luau parties are a staple theme for birthday parties, this theme can be expanded upon and turned into hula, surf, beach and even tropical Hawaiian parties. Does this Spark an idea?
Luau
Give each guest a lei made from silk or paper flowers.
Luaus are Hawaiian-style parties. Depending on the budget for the party, it can include tiki torches, real or tissue paper leis, Hawaiian dancing and maybe even a roasted pig. For a children's party go with a simpler approach. FamilyFun.go.com encourages decorating with paper flowers, colored lights and paper lanterns. Purchase inexpensive grass skirts and play ukulele music. Purchase a cake decorated with tropical flowers or even a pineapple upside-down cake.
Surf
Pose guests with a surfboard for a souvenir photo.
One variation on the Hawaiian theme party is a surf party. Have it at the beach if possible, and tell guests to dress for surfing. If the ocean is too far away, give guests souvenir photos that make them feel like they went to the beach. Using a painted backdrop and a surfboard, take "hang-10" photos of guests.
TopPartyIdeas.com suggests giving young guests a science lesson during the party with balloon surfing. Using different size balloons filled with air, tape them to the bottom of a large plastic lid or board. Children stand on the board with feet spread and move their weight back and forth as if they are surfing. The balloons don't pop because of the distribution of weight.
Hula
Hula dancing is synonymous with Hawaii. Take this traditional dance and turn it into a party theme. AmazingMoms.com suggests providing grass skirts for guests and hiring an instructor to teach them to hula. For a more low-key children's party, use hula-hoops and have a competition. Young guests can have an endurance contest to see how long they can hula-hoop, then they can decorate their hoops to take them home as a gift. Hula dancing incorporates hand and arm movements that tell stories. Teach these to guests as well.
Food
Parties often revolve around food, so having a Hawaiian-themed food birthday won't disappoint. While there aren't many places to find poi, there are many traditional Hawaiian foods that are easy to prepare and find in local stores. Bring the flavors of Hawaii to the table with simple tropical fruit kabobs and teriyaki chicken. For some more Hawaiian favorites try macaroni salad, mai tais and Spam matsubi.
Beach
A Hawaiian beach-themed party will get guests in the mood for fun. Play volleyball with the guests, in the sand or on the grass, and incorporate some water games. This party would be great poolside or at the beach. Set up some brightly colored umbrellas and serve slushy cold drinks. Encourage guests to wear beach clothing and send them home with their own flip-flops.
Tags: birthday parties, children party, grass skirts, Hawaiian-themed birthday, Hula dancing