A typical Hawaiian celebration is the lu¯‘au feast. For the outsider, it means a grand hula production with dinner. Did you know that the word lu‘au means to be filled full, but also refers to the tender green leaf of the taro plant? These leaves were used as cooking vessels. ‘Aha‘aina was the original Hawaiian word for feast, which literally means “a gathering of the land.” At one time, the people of Hawai‘i had to find an excuse not to hold a lu¯‘au. Just mentioning it would start everyone gathering the needs for a successful feast. From the mountain would come a pua‘a (pig) which was baked in the ground. From the ocean limu (seaweed) was gathered; it was believed to release someone from wrongdoing. And from the cultivated land would come kalo (taro) root pounded into poi and ti leaves to cover a table (or mat) to elicit protection. But the essential ingredient for a truly successful lu‘au is sharing Aloha. Visitors to these islands soon find that the feast accompanied by music and dance is one of the best ways to celebrate Hawai‘i.
The Wailele Polynesian Luau at The Westin Maui Resort & Spa is held outdoors alongside the legendary Ka’anapali Beach with a stunning oceanfront backdrop. The dinner show utilizes the elements of earth, fire and water to reflect the rich Polynesian culture through superb performances with vibrant costumes.
The newly-revitalized Aloha Pavilion with cascading waterfalls, tropical gardens and tiki torches presents the perfect setting for guests to embark on an exciting journey to the Polynesian Islands where dance was considered not just as a form of entertainment, but as means of telling stories. Highlights iclude the story of Pele, Goddess of Fire and a new performance dedicated to Wailele (meaning waterfalls). The show also features dances from Hawaii, Fiji, Tahiti, New Zealand and Samoa.
The breath taking finale is none other than Maui’s only extreme fire-knife dance performance. Enjoy a superb Hawaiian meal served buffet style with tradition- al selections for an authentic experience. The three hour experience includes a free flow of drinks all evening with Mai Tais, signature cocktails, local beers, sodas and fruit juices.
Scheduled Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings, additional shows are presented Sunday evenings during summer and holiday seasons. Visit westinmaui.com for show dates and details. For reservations, call the resort at 808-661-2992 or stop at the concierge desks at The Westin Maui Resort & Spa or The Westin Ka’anapali Ocean Resort Villas.
