Luaus are a popular party theme for both adults and children. But the tiki torches and pig roasts that work for adult parties aren't such a good idea for camp luaus. Keeping scores of kids safe just isn't possible with tiki torches or candles around. So those planning a camp luau need to keep safety in mind while still incorporating the theme. Does this Spark an idea?
Atmosphere
Hold the party on or near a beach or pool to help with that Hawaiian feeling. Hang flower garlands (you can buy these or make them with streamers and construction paper flowers) on fences or between tables. Cover trash cans with brightly colored butcher paper. Place plastic palm trees around the edges of the party space. Paint rocks to look like coconuts to use as centerpieces, or use hibiscus flowers in shells. Raffia table skirts can dress up tables. Play Hawaiian music over the loudspeakers. Provide leis for each camper and grass skirts for the counselors.
Activities
A hula hooping station is a must. Provide hoops for at least 10 campers and a counselor who is great at hooping. A hula dancing area is another necessity. If possible, provide videos or an expert to learn from. Campers can also play dodgeball or volleyball with beach balls. If your party is on a beach or you can fill plastic pools with sand, you can also have a sand-castle-building contest. Also try a limbo contest, depending on the age and agility of the campers.
Campers can create a beach mural. Hang a large piece of butcher paper on a fence or between two trees. Campers can paint a beach scene, or hang shell, plant and tree stickers. For another craft, allow campers to make shell art. They can glue shells onto picture frames or small boxes. Luau attendees can also make their own leis or shell necklaces by stringing flowers or shells onto string.
Snacks
Allow campers to drink from plastic cups with cocktail umbrellas. Make lemonade or punch to add to the tropical feeling. Cut up pineapples, mangoes, coconuts and bananas and place toothpicks in them for a healthy snack. While roasting a whole pig, real luau style, probably won't work for a camp celebration, hot dogs are at least made from pig--and very popular with kids. In addition to hot dogs and tropical fruit, Popsicles make a great warm-weather treat.
Tags: butcher paper, flowers shells, shells onto, tiki torches