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The Hukilau 2012 Official Thread & Announcement!

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HH

The Hukilau moves to April in 2012, launches new website
-- Tickets on sale now for annual Polynesian Pop festival --
http://www.thehukilau.com

Organizers of the largest annual celebration of Tiki culture on the East Coast went straight to the event's loyal following when it came time to plan the 2012 event. The result? An earlier date and other exciting changes that have just been announced on the event's totally redesigned website, TheHukilau.com.

The Hukilau, which spent the past five years in early June, now moves to April 19-22 as the result of a poll of its Facebook fans. The earlier date promises milder weather and more separation from the other major summer events.

Activities will again be centered around two beachside hotels plus the legendary Mai-Kai restaurant, which is celebrating its 55th anniversary this month. But months of feedback from Hukilau fans resulted in several changes: More events at The Mai-Kai, a more budget-friendly hotel, and a more laid-back schedule with time to enjoy the company of friends and South Florida's abundant beaches and beauty.

One thing that hasn't changed, however, is The Hukilau's commitment to high-caliber entertainment and educational symposiums. Among the 2012 highlights are: Nashville surf/spy/space supergroup The Martian Denny Orchestra; a symposium on the mysterious Zombie cocktail by influential mixologist and author Jeff "Beachbum" Berry; a hands-on symposium by tattoo artist and historian Paul Roe; and several performances by acclaimed burlesque star Angie Pontani.

Here's an overview of this magical Polynesian weekend in America's Vacationland:


(A sneak preview of Mookie Sato's glassware design)

TICKETS AND SCHEDULE

Prices range from $25 for Thursday night only to $150 for an all-access pass that gives you entry to all four days of events, including the symposiums. Other options are a Friday-Saturday pass for $55, and a Thursday-to-Saturday pass for $85 (not including symposiums). Tickets for the Friday Main Event at the Bahia Cabana are $27, and symposium prices range from $15 for "Ta-ta-u - The Mark of Civilization" to $35 for "Revenge of the Zombie."

THE PERFORMERS

The Martian Denny Orchestra blends surf, spy and space sounds while covering instrumental classics by Duane Eddy, the Ventures, the Rockin' Rebels and Santo & Johnny. Led by acclaimed guitarist Eddie Angel (Los Straitjackets, The Neanderthals), the band features a who's who of top Nashville musicians, who boast resumes that include work with Johnny Cash, John Mellencamp, NRBQ and others.

Angie Pontani, founding member of the World Famous Pontani Sisters, will make several special appearances. One of the most recognized and respected names in burlesque, she has been credited with helping pioneer the new revival with her classic and classy approach to strip-tease.

The Intoxicators from Tallahassee have become a fixture at The Hukilau, performing multiple sets at multiple venues, sometimes (as the simian surf band The Disasternauts) as an entirely different species. A revved-up throwback to the 1960s instrumental surf scene, these guys always put on an energetic live show.

The Stolen Idols from Tampa is one of only a small number of ensembles in the world presenting exotica authentically, with acoustic instruments and a Latin jazz sensibility.

Miami's Gold Dust Lounge, led by guitarist/songwriter Russell Mofsky, is an amalgam of surf, jazz, spy-fi and spaghetti western, filtered through a film noir lens with a bit of groove.

King Kukulele (aka Denny Moynahan) is as much a part of The Hukilau as The Mai-Kai itself. The comedian, actor and ukuleleist never fails to keep the energy level high with a his one-liners, hapa haole and novelty songs.

Pablus, co-founder of The Crazed Mugs, will be making special solo appearances with his ukulele and golden voice. His repertoire ranges from original Crazed Mugs tunes to Hawaiian, hapa haole and classic songs from yesterday.

Dan Cunningham has been channeling Elvis Presley for 15 years, performing everywhere from The Mai-Kai to Graceland. His repertoire covers everything from the King's early rockabilly roots through his white jumpsuit days.

Marina the Fire Eating Mermaid has become a fixture at Tiki and retro events with her aquatic performances and stunt dancing. She and her team of mermaids perform at the nearby Sheraton Beach Hotel's Wreck Bar, where windows into the second-floor pool offer a fish-eye view.

DJs Jack Fetterman and Gina of the Jungle, Heelgrinder and Lounge Laura Taylor will be spinning tunes throughout the weekend.

SYMPOSIUMS AND SPECIAL EVENTS

Jeff "Beachbum" Berry is back with a new symposium, "Revenge of the Zombie," at which he'll dig deep into the archives to trace the development of one of history's most infamous cocktail, from the 1930s to the present. Berry is the author of five books (with a sixth in the works) on tropical mixology and its rich history, and one of Imbibe magazine's 25 most influential cocktail personalities of the past century.

Paul Roe of Britishink Tattoos in Washington, D.C., returns with another visually stimulating and informative symposium. "Ta-ta-u - The Mark of Civilization" will look at the importance of the male and female tattoos in Samoa, culminating in a demonstration of traditional tatau.

Tim "Swanky" Glazner will lead the first-ever symposium on the history of The Mai-Kai to be presented in the restaurant's grand dining room. "Mai-Kai: History, Mystery & Adventure" will take guests on a trip back to 1956, when the Thornton brothers took Don the Beachcomber's concept, supersized it and and plopped it down on a rural stretch of Fort Lauderdale's U.S. 1.

"Plastic Paradise" - a new documentary on the rise, fall and resurgence of Tiki culture - will get a sneak preview. The project by Miami filmmakers Common Machine was commissioned by PBS with much footage shot at Hukilau 2011 in June.

An exclusive Tiki bowling event will be offered to a small number of lucky guests. They'll get a chance to play the themed lanes and tour a vintage Tiki apartment complex west of Fort Lauderdale.

THE MAI-KAI

Due to popular demand, more activities will be centered at the landmark Polynesian palace, including symposiums, happy hours and late-night parties. This is in addition to the event's centerpiece, the Saturday night main event featuring live bands all night long and two dinner shows starring The Mai-Kai's vintage South Seas stage show.

TIKI TREASURES BAZAAR

Vendors from around the world will be on hand selling exotic art and retro merchandise. Space is limited to 32 vendors, so early reservations are encouraged.

OFFICIAL MERCHANDISE

The Hukilau 2012 event mug is being designed and produced by Tiki Diablo, aka Danny Gallardo, a Los Angeles-based artist and carver. Special glassware is being designed by Mookie Sato, an illustrator and graphic designer from Japan. Also in the works: T-shirts, pendants, and more.

LODGING

The Best Western Oceanside Inn, just steps away from Fort Lauderdale Beach, is the new host hotel. It will be the site of the Tiki Treasures Bazaar, daily activities and some of the evening celebrations. Just across Highway A1A is the Bahia Cabana Beach Resort, home to Hukilau activities for the past eight years. It will also host some day and evening events.

HUKILAU HISTORY

A Hukilau is a traditional Hawaiian festival at which a large net is cast into the sea so the villagers can pull the catch to shore. The feast that follows signifies the spirit of family and community, or 'ohana. This mainland Hukilau is a metaphorical net thrown out to the entire world, bringing lovers of Polynesian Pop and Tiki culture together for a very special celebration.

After debuting in 2002 in Atlanta, The Hukilau found its natural home at The Mai-Kai and Fort Lauderdale's beachside hotels. The event was held in June in 2003, but moved to September in 2004. After being battered by Hurricane Jeanne, The Hukilau was switched to October in 2005 and 2006. In 2007, it moved back to June, where it remained through 2011. For the 11th straight year, The Hukilau is being organized and produced by co-creator and co-founder Christie "Tiki Kiliki" White.

The many performers and artists who have contributed their talents to The Hukilau include: Los Straitjackets, The Neanderthals, The Sweet Hollywaiians, The Woogles, Yma Sumac, Robert Drasnin, Tikiyaki Orchestra, Martini Kings, Waitiki, Laramie Dean, The Crazed Mugs, Haole Kats, The Disasternauts, The Exotics, Grinder Nova, The Fisherman, Josh Agle (aka Shag), Kevin Kidney and Jody Daily, Bosko, and Sven Kirsten.

CONTACTS

Official websites
http://www.thehukilau.com
Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/thehukilau
Facebook group: http://www.facebook.com/groups/thehukilau
http://twitter.com/TheHukilau
http://www.flickr.com/groups/hukilau/
http://www.youtube.com/user/TheHukilauEvent
T

Thanks for getting the thread started Jim!!

Come join us for another wonderful weekend with daily parties at the Mai-Kai!! There's more to come, like photos of the vintage bowling alley that we have for a few hours on Sunday!
Z

Looking forward to vending at Hukilau again! Had a great time last year, met a lot of TC'ites and hope to meet more this year!
K

Hey gonna be my first looking forward to it !
HH

Curious about the "Tiki Bowling" event scheduled for Sunday afternoon at Hukilau?

The condo complex that contains the bowling alley above has been written about before on Tiki Central. Can you find it?

Hint: It also contains an amazing amount of Witco decor.
N
Nani posted on Fri, Jan 13, 2012 11:19 AM

How can Mr Fatu find out about performing at Hukilau 2012?
Mahalo, Nani
S

On 2012-01-13 11:19, Nani wrote:
How can Mr Fatu find out about performing at Hukilau 2012?
Mahalo, Nani

Is that THE Mr. Fatu? Man I hope so!
T

Nani,

I just sent you a personal message!
HH

Check out all the latest info on The Hukilau and The Mai-Kai on The Atomic Grog. We've just posted a new cocktail review plus news on April's events ...

http://www.slammie.com/atomicgrog/blog/

Mahalo!
HH

The official Hukilau postcard flier is printed and available for distribution both online and in the real world.

If you'd like to help pass some out in your community, just e-mail [email protected] and we'll mail some out to you. Or if you're in South Florida, we can meet up with you. We're especially looking for folks around Florida to hit all the stores, shops and events.

Also, we've posted the postcard online in various sizes for you to add to your website or download and post on Facebook and elsewhere. There are also various versions of the official logo. See the samples below or go to: http://www.thehukilau.com/2012/promotional-fliers-and-logos/

Mahalo!
HH

Just confirmed: The addition of exotica band Exotik-a-GoGo and influential author Sven Kirsten.

Exotik-a-GoGo, a fixture at Psycho Suzi’s Motor Lounge in Minneapolis, is scheduled to perform during the Thursday night festivities.

Kirsten’s talk will take place either Friday or Saturday (April 20-21) and will require a separate ticket.

Tickets will go on sale Monday, so check the Facebook page or official site for details.

http://www.facebook.com/thehukilau

http://www.thehukilau.com
Z

when will the time and place of the new seminar be decided? cant buy a ticket without knowing that
HH

It will be either Friday or Saturday afternoon. It's unlikely to be any other day or time. Tiki Kiliki will be meeting with The Mai-Kai this weekend to update the schedule.

Also, FYI, she just clarified that since this is being announced late, it will not be included with the all-access pass like the other symposiums. Tickets will need to be purchased separately.

We'll let you know when the updated schedule is posted.

Aloha!
HH

The Menehune have been hard at work on the schedule. Check it out:

http://www.thehukilau.com/2012/schedule-of-event/

And for those who didn't get the latest Huki Nuhou e-mail:

Tiki Diablo has been working harder than the Menehune on the official 2012 mug. All he'll let us see for now is this sculpt photo, but stay tuned for more. Inspired by Guanko carvings, this will be an edition of 250 pieces. To be added to the pre-sale list, be sure to e-mail [email protected] now.

Also, we're still looking for vendors and sponsors. Click here for more info:
http://www.thehukilau.com/2012/become-a-vendor/
http://www.thehukilau.com/2012/media/info-page-sponsors-advertising-and-vendors/

And if you're interested in volunteering (hey, the Menehune can't do everything), click here to find out how:
http://www.thehukilau.com/2012/contact/
HH

Here are the latest updates ...

2012 COMMEMORATIVE MUG

Designed by Danny Gallardo, aka Tiki Diablo, this limited-edition beauty was inspired by Milan Guanko, Tiki Kiliki's favorite historic carver. When Danny sent her a photo of a Tiki from carver Richard Ellis that was made for the Tradewinds Restaurant in Oxnard, Calif., she immediately knew it was what she wanted: "This Tiki had everything we wanted and more. Danny has done an amazing job - we love it!"

To purchase one of the 250 mugs, click here: http://www.thehukilau.com/2012/2012-hukilau-mug/

WHO NEEDS A ROOM CRAWL?

While room parties will surely be ongoing throughout the weekend - and we encourage hosts to post their plans here or elsewhere on Tiki Central - the officially sanctioned cocktails will be centered around the Best Western Oceanside's pool and sun deck. Some great mixologists will be serving up some kick-ass cocktails, so don't miss out ...

*** Thursday’s kickoff drink will be served poolside from 5 to 9 p.m. (while supplies last) by the crew from New York City’s Lani Kai. A sampling of authentic Mai Tais will be served as a flight.

*** Friday kicks off with a potent punch served between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. (while supplies last) on the Tiki Treasures Bazaar floor and sun deck. Inspired by the Caribbean island of Grenada (via Sweden), the St. George's Punch comes to us from Helena Tiare Olsen and her cocktail blog, A Mountain of Crushed Ice. The cocktail will be mixed by 2011 Hukilau Master Mixologist competitor and 2012 Mixology Symposium Coordinator George Jenkins.

*** Friday night's festivities get in gear poolside from 5 to 6:30 p.m. as another New York City crew, the mixologists from the Lower East Side's PKNY, show off their flair for craft cocktails with a special classic recipe featuring Sailor Jerry and other tasty rums (while supplies last).

*** Saturday afternoon's Tiki Treasures Bazaar features a warm-up for the evening's main event with a classic cocktail provided by The Mai-Kai from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (while supplies last). Don't miss this unique sampling of Mai-Kai mixology on the third floor sun deck area.

Please note: You must have a Hukilau wristband to receive free cocktails.

And don't forget DJs Gina of the Jungle and Jack Fetterman will be spinning great tunes at the Best Western all weekend.

NEW RUM SPONSOR

The Hukilau welcomes Sailor Jerry. You'll see this great spiced rum around much of the weekend, including a special symposium. Our other sponsors are Tiki Magazine, Fee Brothers and Psycho Suzi's Motor Lounge.

NEW HOTEL RATES

The Bahia Cabana's rates have been lowered for The Hukilau weekend. Even if you already have reservations, your rate will reflect these price changes: Standard $99, efficiency $119, one-bedroom suite $139. Remember, you must call the hotel directly at (954) 524-1555 to make your reservations and mention The Hukilau.
http://www.thehukilau.com/2012/lodging/

UPDATED SCHEDULE

Be sure to confirm the dates and times of all the great symposiums and your favorite bands. There's always something going on, so make your plans and don't miss a minute.
http://www.thehukilau.com/2012/schedule-of-event/

COMING SOON

More info on merchandise and PKNY's mystery drink.

[ Edited by: Hurricane Hayward 2012-03-21 17:55 ]

[ Edited by: Hurricane Hayward 2012-04-03 21:57 ]
C

Lost In Paradise: Hukilau Leftovers

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2vcaYIk0Vtk
HH

Here are some updates on Beachbum Berry's "Revenge Of The Zombie: The Tale of Tiki’s Deadliest Drink" (and his upcoming book) ...

The symposium is an updated version of one he presented only once before, at last year’s Miami Rum Renaissance Festival. Even if you attended that event, you’ll still want to check out The Hukilau presentation. He plans several new features, including a vintage film clip with sound, in addition to a slide show and mixology demonstrations. There will also, of course, be samples of several vintage Zombies.


(A vintage 1940s Zombie matchbook image from Monte Proser's Beachcomber restaurant in Baltimore. From the collection of Jonpaul Balak.)

"Beachbum Berry’s Potions of the Caribbean: 500 years of Tropical Drinks … and the People Behind Them" will be published by the end of the year, through Mud Puddle Books, in a fully illustrated deluxe edition.

According to the Bum, it "features 77 historical recipes, including 16 that have never before been published in any form, and another 19 that have never been published in book form (only in old newspapers and magazines, or in souvenir pamphlets given away by bars). The remaining recipes come from books that for the most part have long been out of print."

See the full story here:
http://www.slammie.com/atomicgrog/blog/2012/03/27/beachbum-berry-digs-deep-to-unearth-vintage-zombies-more-potions-of-the-caribbean/
B

Ah um sooo looking forward to this!
HH

A few more updates:

The Intoxicators have been added to the Thursday night festivites at the Best Western Oceanside.

A new symposium has been added on Saturday, April 21, at 12:30 p.m. at the Best Western Oceanside. Paul Monahan of Sailor Jerry rum will host a special free symposium on the history of spiced rum, its links to Tiki culture and its place in the competitive world of spirits. In addition, Richard Boccato and his team from New York City Tiki bar PKNY will demonstrate classic spiced rum cocktails using Sailor Jerry.

As usual, check the schedule online for all the latest info:
http://www.thehukilau.com/2012/schedule-of-event/
B

Aloha Hukilau-ers !

As some of you are aware, I am THE Hukilau Photographer and my team at go11 and I are excited to be covering the event again! We will have a few fabulous surprises for you all this year so keep an eye out for us and watch the schedule for the time of the group shot.... and don't be shy ! Get in front of our cameras !!! We will be wearing "Special" badges so you can find us.... or Hide from us if you are a wanted felon, in the witness protection program, with someone other than your wife/husband/S.O., or having a bad hair day.

and... yes, I am aware that my "hang-loose" sorta looks like an "L" for Loser. I did not have time to flip the image. Thanks SO much to those of you who pointed that out. I will remember you all when photoshoping your images.

[ Edited by: Bohemiann 2012-04-10 09:46 ]
HH

Check out some of Bohemiann's handiwork in this cool audio slideshow we just posted (featuring the music of The Intoxicators and The Woggles) that takes a look back at the wild 2010 opening night party.

http://www.slammie.com/atomicgrog/blog/2012/04/11/audio-slideshow-flashback-hukilaus-2010-opening-party-reached-a-new-level-of-overindulgence/

Shag was in the house for "2010: A Cocktail Odyssey – The Hukilau Room Crawl" plus the first "Master Mixologist Cocktail Challenge." What a night. Direct link to the slideshow here:
http://www.slammie.com/hukilau/2010slideshow/

And we also dug up a 2009 slideshow that recaps that entire year's events, including Los Straitjackets and much more ...

Direct link to the slideshow here: http://www.slammie.com/hukilau/slideshow/

What does 2012 have in store?
K

Hello, so I've seemed to miss this event every year due to travelling, and I live in Lauderdale by the Sea! I have a friend coming in town next week and we're excited to finally make it to Hukilua this year. I'm a bike ride from the Mai Kai and Bahia Cabana

Planning on hitting the Mai Kai Wednesday for happy hour as I heard it's the pre-party, hopefully I can meet an insider or two to give me the low down on what not to miss.
J

Excellent! See you there!
B

While in preperation for my Hukilau presentation, I decided I needed a new wardrobe...where better to go than EXOTICAL in Downey,CA !

The shop is now operated by the grandkids of the original owner....

...which is a rarity nowadays which deserves our support. A most colorful environment...

Not only does one find Aloha shirts and dresses in every style and size...

[

...but all kinds of island jetsam and flotsam.

Most of all, this is an authentic, vintage location!

I give EXOTICAL a thumbs up!
HH

A few more updates ...

Common Machine Productions will present a sneak peek of their upcoming documentary, "Plastic Paradise: A Swingin' Trip Through America's Polynesian Obsession," during Hukilau 2012.

The sneak preview will be shown just before the first Dinner Show at The Mai-Kai and will begin promptly at 5 p.m. You must have dinner show reservations to see the film. Everyone must be seated. If you haven't made reservations, call now: (954) 563-3272.

The documentary, which will hit the film festival circuit later this year before being shown on PBS in 2013, tells the story of Tiki culture's original rise and fall, and its subsequent rediscovery by a new generation of Polynesian Popsters. Filmed in Los Angeles and Fort Lauderdale — much of it on location at the world-famous Mai-Kai during Hukilau 2011 — "Plastic Paradise" features interviews with Sven Kirsten, Beachbum Berry, Tiki Kiliki, Otto von Stroheim, Swanky, King Kukulele, Shag, Tiki Bob, Marina the Fire Eating Mermaid, and many more.

Artist and designer extraordinaire Kevin Kidney is the film's art director. Filmmakers Brett O'Bourke and Gaspar González of Common Machine will host the screening, discuss the film, and take questions from the audience afterward.

Tiki Kiliki invites you to see her get tattooed at this year's Hukilau. Paul Roe, Tattoo historian and owner of British Ink Tattoos in Washington, D.C., will present another informative symposium - "Ta-ta-u: The Mark of Civilization" - and plans to give her a traditional "tatau" as part of the presentation on the importance of the male and female tattoos in Samoa. It's set for Saturday, April 21, at 11:30 a.m. at the Best Western Oceanside Inn.

Get your tickets to this and all of the symposiums before they sell out: http://www.thehukilau.com/2012/tickets/

Immediately following at 12:30, you won't want to miss a FREE cocktail symposium. Paul Monahan of Sailor Jerry rum will talk about the history of spiced rum, its links to Tiki culture and its place in the competitive world of spirits. In addition, Richard Boccato and his team from New York City Tiki bar PKNY will demonstrate classic spiced rum cocktails using Sailor Jerry.

We hope to see you there!

[ Edited by: Hurricane Hayward 2012-04-14 11:22 ]
B

I had fun going back thru my 35 mm slide folders....man, I got tooo much stuff to share! This is gonna be one fun ride, folks! A bit of a "making of" of the Book of Tiki. I am going to "explain" urban archeology, and show unpublished eye candy from such lost Tiki temples as the Kahiki, the Chin Tiki, and The Tikis. And the apartments, so much good stuff, oy vey...I am afraid this show might run a little longer than an hour.

Young urban archeologist surveying ancient site
HH

Just posted: A special audio slideshow that takes a look back at last year's rum-soaked flurry of mixology and creativity ...

http://www.slammie.com/atomicgrog/blog/2012/04/16/audio-slideshow-flashback-hukilau-2011-cocktail-contest-was-a-barrel-of-fun/

... with the soundtrack provided by The Crazed Mugs!

If you're coming this year, let us know when you'll be arriving ...
CAA

If you're coming this year, let us know when you'll be arriving ...

We'll see you guys Wednesday in the Molokai, and Saturday at Dinner. Well, you guys have dinner, we'll meet you (again) in the Molokai.

We might be different and hang out in the Gardens, it has been quite lovely in the evenings.
HH

For newbies, or anyone who needs a refresher, we just posted part one of our survival guide. Lots more to come.
http://www.slammie.com/atomicgrog/blog/2012/04/18/got-tiki-trepidation-heres-a-hukilau-survival-guide/

(Tip 1: Don't dive from this height)
A

Weather can't get any better!
HW

So envious, just couldn't schwing it this year. Have a Happy Hukilau everyone!
HH

It was good to see Mr. Berry, Mr. Cate, Mr. and Mrs. Desmond, the gang from Lani Kai and others enjoying The Mai-Kai into the wee hours last night.

It's shaping up to be a festive year!

The "Survival Guide" is updated with everything you need to know about today and tonight:
http://www.slammie.com/atomicgrog/blog/2012/04/18/got-tiki-trepidation-heres-a-hukilau-survival-guide/#thursday
T

I wanted to pop in and let the board know that I am celebrating the Hukilau 2012 kickoff by posting a historical look at the mug releases of the past at the Hukilau. I spent a good deal of time researching this article (despite my absence from prior events) and I truly hope it adds to the flavor of the event since I'm stuck in Winter Park, FL this weekend. I have been careful to credit all artists and Ooga-Mooga for all of their wonderful and hard work. Mad shout out to Tiki Kiliki for keeping our exotic hearts filled each year! Keep it up. I'm working consistently and hard on my blog and hope to offer my multimedia skills to the promotion or showcase side of the Hukilau and Tiki Oasis in future years! Mahalo and enjoy!

The 10 Years of Hukilau Tiki Mugs:

http://thegangisound.blogspot.com/2012/04/10-years-of-hukilau-tiki-mugs.html

Enjoy the event and imbibe on one for me!
P

Lani Kai last night. PKNY tonight. Had a chance, mahalo to George Jenkins, to see what PKNY was cooking up in the kitchen last night. Unbelievable. Mounds of ginger and limes, cinnamon and other ingredients.

It's all out war, the battle of Manhattan, as one of the distinguished Lani Kai bartenders stated.

Music, laughs, nice breezes, lovely wahines in vintage and island wear, lots of art, carvings, vinyl, things of that nature.

Sven brought a Mai Tai swizzle to me during the first few songs of my set. That's livin' right there. I opted out of the Mai Kai as I had already been there the night before and will most likely go again this evening. Pacing, you know.

It's a beautiful morning in Ft. Lauderdale and I think I'm the only person in this hotel to witness it... after a night's sleep anyway.
HH

A few random photos from Thursday night ...

The Intoxicators rock the Best Western:

The Lani Kai served up perfect Mai Tais:

A birds-eye view of the fire dance:

Later, at The Mai-Kai, the tiki gods were satiated:

Let's see your photos (or links) ...
HH

Day 3 of the survival guide is up:
http://www.slammie.com/atomicgrog/blog/2012/04/18/got-tiki-trepidation-heres-a-hukilau-survival-guide/#friday
B

No more pix so far? Everybody must too busy having fun! Here are some isolated impressions:

Poolside at the Oceanside

The Mai Kai - before the show:

Swanky's show:

The Wreck Bar a bit crowded:

The view on top of the pool:

A mermaid in her element:

A Tiki archeologist in HIS element!:

This one is for Nick and Moritz:
MH

Thanks for the photos BigBroTiki!
Q

Thanks so much BigBro for allowing those of us who couldn't be there to experience the event though your photos! It would appear you are having a wonderful time "in your element".

The Atomic Grog updates are great also!

Mahalo and Cheers!!
Z

Had a great time at Hukilau! Sent a whole lot of Tiki Tower art off to new homes, but best of all really enjoyed meeting so many Tiki Central members and facebook friends who always seem to have great stories at the ready!

It was greet meeting and sitting down for breakfast with TikiTomD and his wife (who is the proud owner of my 6 year old daughter's Mermaid drawing), also thrilled to meet Sven (who graciously signed my copy of The Book Of Tiki), GatorRob, Brian and Gary of The Intoxicators, Pablus who was so kind in his appraisal of my work and gave a great performance, a brief encounter with Guitar God Eddie Angel and many more!

Being a vendor I didn't have a whole lot of opportunity to walk around and take pics, but I have a few to share, most from the vantage point of my room and a few from the fun photobooth!












The free drinks were good and plentiful! Everyone recieved one of these!





Tiki Tower
The Art of Robert Jimenez
http://www.tikitower.com

[ Edited by: zerostreet 2012-04-25 17:28 ]
W

Thanks for the pictures, looks like a great time was had. Especially by Sven! :)
T

Indeed, Chris, Sven was clearly enjoying himself, as you can see from the photo below when King Kukulele warmly greeted him at the poolside...

And here he is recuperating with Mai-Kai beverage in the Molokai Bar Saturday night...

Looking thru the glass at the far end of the Molokai Bar (with reflections of interior lamps)...

A pair of lovely Molokai Maidens...

A Kona Coffee Grog in preparation inside the Molokai Bar...

George Jenkins (TikiHardBop) in readiness to serve Zombie samples during the Bum's symposium at the Mai-Kai...

Jeff 'Beachbum' Berry presenting "Revenge Of The Zombie: The Tale of Tiki’s Deadliest Drink" at the Mai-Kai Saturday afternoon...

Steve Remsberg demonstrating Zombie preparation during the Bum's "Revenge Of The Zombie: The Tale of Tiki’s Deadliest Drink" presentation...

GatorRob tapping into the Mai-Kai's Mystery Drink...

And the Mai-Kai's Polynesian show begins...

-Tom
Q

Thanks so much to everyone for posting pictures and some insightful commentary as well! Great stuff!

I sure wish I could have been there...

Cheers!
W

Wonderful pictures Tom, thank you so much!
J

What a GREAT time...it was wonderful to meet so many of the TCers in attendance, too. Many, many thanks to the terrific Tiki Kiliki and to volunteer coordinator Shell-In-The-Pacific. I'm exhausted, but it's a good kind of tired...

[ Edited by: jokeiii 2012-04-23 12:38 ]
HH

Great pictures everyone. Keep 'em coming. Here are a few that represent how many of us are feeling right now (Zombie-like) ...
H

I thought it was the best Hukilau so far! I'm already counting the minutes until next year.
T

Us too!

-Jack and Gina

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