In a sign that things are slowly returning to normal, Disney's Aulani Resort & Spa once again resumed their popular luau event, Ka Wa'a, on March 27. This luau is filled with storytelling about ancient Hawaii and island life, then and now. We don't normally love a luau as most fall somewhere between cheesy and boring but the Disney one is a well-thought out performance, easy for children to follow along and entertaining for adults.
Yet the pandemic has changed some of the luau traditions, namely the following:
- There's no mingling around before, during or after the event. Guests are required to stay seated unless going to the bathroom.
- All activities and crafts are done at the table and there's not many to do aside from the lei-making kit.
- Musicians are behind plexiglass screens but performers are not, although they are kept from a distance from the tables.
- Photos with the luau performers are done from a social distance and with masks (this may change.)
- Food is served in bento boxes, not buffet-style. Every party also has their own table.
- Mickey and Minnie do make a very brief appearance for luau.
KEEP READING FOR PHOTOS AND OUR ONE BIG TIP (watch more on our Instagram Highlights too!)
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
This is Disney and Hawaii, so it's no surprise that the luau is expensive for a family of five. Tickets start at $160 for adults and $94 for keiki over 3. The food is great, the performance is spectacular and it does include alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. (We started out with their signature rum and blue curacao cocktail but quickly moved to tequila and soda.) So all this adds up.
BUT…
If you can, splurge a little extra for the preferred seating at $189 for adults and $114 for keiki over 3. That's because you'll get a table closer to the performance but you'll also be able to enter the Hālāwai Lawn about 15 minutes earlier which is a calmer way to kick off the evening. (And you know serious Disney fans—if the event says arrive at 5pm, they will be there at 430pm. Lol.)
Also, good to know: the luau is open to non-Aulani guests and if you want, you can arrive on property even earlier to hit up the gift shop.
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