The Hukilau
This event is hard to explain, Road Trips Foodies! It’s part food, part entertainment, and all kinds of fun in a retro ’50s pseudo-Polynesian sort of way. The Hukilau starts today and runs through Sunday (June 13, 2010) in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
According to the organizers, a Hukilau is a traditional Hawaiian festival held in the fishing villages of old. A large net is cast into the sea to herd fish then the villagers slowly pull the net to the shore. The feast that follows is meant to emphasize the spirit of family and community, or ‘ohana. Ofr course, Fort Lauderdale is neither in Hawaii nor a fishing village, but, they say, their mainland Hukilau is a metaphorical net thrown out to the entire world, bringing lovers of “Polynesian Pop” or “Tiki” culture together.
Saturday night, for example, begins with drinks and music in the nautical Molokai Bar, then moves to the Mai-Kai’s many dining rooms, where there will be two seatings for dinner and a Polynesian floor show. (And, yes, of course Trader Vic’s is one of the sponsors!)
Check out all the events (and good “Polynesian” eating) online.