Post #785354 by AceExplorer on Mon, Mar 26, 2018 9:04 AM

Swanky is right, the Hukilau has not been room-party-centric. BUT:

1. A few people at the Hukilau still have room parties, and I attended a very good one last year which was hosted by a very friendly and generous TC'er. So they do occur.
2. The Hukilau has an incredible outdoor pool party with no-limit bar tents from a dizzying array of international bars and bartenders. Plus they have the most boozy "Tiki Tower Takeover" which is also no-limits, world-class, expensive to put on, and in the stunning rotating restaurant atop the tower. These events are so good that they really eclipse any room parties. Sure, it costs money to attend. But if you're coming from out-of-state or from another continent, you're guaranteed a spot and you will have a very good time. This totally makes sense - these are premium and high-quality events and experiences.
3. The Hukilau cocktail and rum seminars are of very high quality, and you can do plenty of drinking there.
4. Evenings are perfect for room parties, but then you'd miss out on the lineup of musical performers, so it is hard to have both going on without drawing the ire of attendees. It's a case of which do you want more - top-notch musical entertainment in a larger venue with cocktails, or room parties in much smaller venues? Both have pros and cons, so I'm just saying that you can't judge easily in light of the magnitude of the musical talent which is offered.

The "success" of the event for me is how I manage what the organizers offer. Room parties, while loads of fun, are easily overshadowed by the magnitude of what the organizers are presenting. Best example is how the pool party has a ton of attendies, a ton of tents and cocktails, and relatively short lines to be served. Plus the bars give away some really cool swizzles and a few other things you will really appreciate.

I hope that helps with your investigation.