Has anyone seen my grass skirt?

Can you feel the gentle island breeze? Do you hear the distant drum beats? Are you ready to embrace the sun? Then you'll be excited to find out that it's almost that time of year for The Hukilau Tiki Festival in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida!

Here at Shellbelle's Tiki Hut we embrace all things tiki! Thanks to my parents, I grew up in this culture; our garage was converted into a tiki lounge, we held an annual luau in our backyard for family and friends AND you all know I raised an amazing son who carves the most incredible tikis…

So, entice your senses with the alluring vibe of the Polynesian islands and the world of Tikiphiles while sipping potent potions this summer during the 10-year Anniversary of The Hukilau! The East coast’s largest Tiki and Polynesian Pop gathering will also be honoring the 55-year Anniversary of the historic Mai-Kai Restaurant, one of the remaining Polynesian Tiki treasures in North America.

This year's event will be held June 9–12th and it promises to be an exciting year. The Hukilau turns 10, the Mai-Kai celebrates 55 years and Fort Lauderdale is 100 years old!

A Hukilau, which is a traditional Hawaiian festival held in fishing villages of old, features a large net cast into the sea where villagers herd the fish and slowly pull the net to the shore. The feast that follows emphasizes the spirit of family and community or ohana. The Hukilau is our mainland celebration where we bring fans of Tiki, Retro and Pop culture from all over the world for an unforgettable weekend.

The Hukilau's Founder and Producer Christie J. White

“The Hukilau's partnership with the Mai-Kai, the world famous Polynesian-themed restaurant, has definitely been a key to our success and has set us apart from other events,” explains The Hukilau Founder and Producer Christie J. White. “Not only do attendees have the opportunity to enjoy the weekend with other Tiki/mid-century/vintage lovers, they also have the added benefit of a classic experience at this mid-century icon — complete with an amazing floor show, tropical gardens and a vintage drink menu that features hundreds of cocktails from Tiki's history! There’s no other place like it in the world!” 

Marina the Fire Eating Mermaid

The Hukilau 2011 is an extravaganza all

kanes and wahines won’t want to miss!

Be sure to come back to The Hut on Monday for your invitation to a special online World Oceans Day Beach Party I'll be hosting the day before The Hukilau begins!

Aloha