The island of Hawaii has a rich culture and traditions that go far beyond the images of white sand, blue skies and shimmering waters that we may conjure up when we think of it. From hula dancing, to luaus, to flowery leis being placed around out-of-towners' necks when they first set foot on Hawaii, these islands have an extremely rich culture.
Features
The conch shell is a massive seashell that plays an important role in Hawaiian traditions. The "blowing of the conch shell" is an ancient Hawaiian ritual and it is performed to this day in Hawaii. It is generally done during traditional ceremonies and festivals. It is supposed to give thanks, bring people together in harmony and receive blessings. When it is blown strongly, the sound is so loud that it can be heard for miles.
Significance
Hula dancing is a world famous Hawaiian traditional dance. It is supposed to tell a story in a flowing, dancing manner. The music consists of repetitive chanting, which are known as "mele." These chants are either done alone or accompanied by music. The hula has ancient origins in which it began as a style of worshiping. The instruments were made out of coconuts, gourds or logs covered in shark-skin membrane. The ukulele was also a major instrument used in hula dancing.
Potential
Another important Hawaiian tradition is making clothing out of kapa (bark cloth). This was an obligation of village women in Hawaii. Cloth was made out of the inner bark of various trees and plants, such as paper mulberry, mamaki, wauke plants and breadfruit. Initially, the village men would harvest mamaki or grow wauke in the lowlands. Kapa clothing is often dyed bright colors and printed with intricate designs.
Function
Leis, which are flower garlands, are one of the most well known symbols of Hawaii. The are made by stringing flowers onto single or numerous strands and then tying the ends together. They are not only made out of flowers--mailes are made out of bright green leaves. The lei has ancient Hawaiian origins and signified special occasions. They are often worn during formal ceremonies in Hawaii, such as weddings, graduations and birthdays. May 1 is "Lei Day" in Hawaii.
Theories/Speculation
Luaus are usually called "Hawaiian barbecues." They are, generally speaking, large parties in which the main meal is a Kahlua pig. Kahlua pigs are entire pigs that are steamed in underground ovens called "imus." The Kahlua pig is served alongside various appetizers called "pupus." The appetizers include haupia (pineapple and coconut pudding) and laulaus (pork cooked inside of leaves).
Tags: ancient Hawaiian, conch shell, hula dancing, rich culture