Hawaii's beaches serve as a backdrop to vibrant culture and food.
The U.S.'s 50th state, the islands of Hawaii are not only ecologically beautiful but also blessed with a bright and vibrant traditional South Pacific culture. Though the end of the Hawaiian monarchy in 1959 brought about cultural change, Hawaii has maintained many of the customs from its past that give the state its own character. From dance to food, Hawaiian culture projects warmth and hospitality, bringing together a generous spirit with a unique island flavor.
Surfing
Hawaii gave birth to the sport of surfing, originating as a royal sport but becoming a popular symbol of Hawaiian cultural pride in the early 20th century. Surfing provides great exercise as well as an opportunity to tame the wildness of the waves. Many of the sport's top competitions are held in Hawaii, and a bronze statue of famous Hawaiian surfer Duke Kahanamoku stands as tribute to Hawaii's unique contribution to the world of sports.
Hula
Hula began as a ritual dance performed in honor of a volcano goddess, but was dramatically changed by Christian missionaries in the 19th century. The dance consists of six traditional moves performed in varying orders and styles to the sounds of men chanting. Men and women traditionally wore short skirts made of leaves and loin clothes. Modern tourism has influenced the dance to include the use of full-length palm leaf skirts and guitars or ukuleles.
Hawaiian Food
Hawaiian cuisine is both flavorful and healthy. The sea provides plenty of protein in the form of fish, crabs, squid and shellfish, and chickens and pigs have also been popular. The traditional Hawaiian dish, poi, is a nutritious carbohydrate paste made from pounded taro that came to symbolize peace and hospitality in Hawaii. Fresh fruits like pineapple, bananas, berries and coconuts bring color to any table, and sugar cane is chewed as a snack.
Luaus
The luau is the traditional Hawaiian feast of celebration and hospitality. The feast centers around the imu, a pit dug into the earth, in which a pig cooks. The pit, lined with stones, holds the pig and bundles of side dishes with hot coals. Cooks cover the pit with leaves and dirt. Party-goers sing, dance, and tell stories until it's time to dig up the pit, and all enjoy the slow-cooked pork with various cooked sides such as poi, seafood and fresh fruits and vegetables.
Hawaiian Hospitality
Hospitality is an important aspect of Hawaiian culture. A flower lei necklace is commonly offered with a kiss, and should not be removed in the presence of others. The Hawaiians consider feasting and celebrating luaus to be an important part of social life. The term "aloha," which means hello, goodbye, love, sympathy, compassion and affection, has come to signify the warm and hospitable character of Hawaiian culture and society.
Tags: Hawaiian culture, traditional Hawaiian