Some of my favorite summer memories growing up are going to luaus and enjoying those delicious tropical drinks, wearing colorful leis around my neck, grass skirts, the fun tiki decor, and of course, the tropical music. These memories, and the fact that summer has arrived in New England, got me thinking about why tiki culture is so popular and where and when did it come from? After a bit of research, this is what I found.

Tiki culture is a blend of Hawaiian and Polynesian cultures. Each culture's different style of drinks, food, and decor was adapted into this one particular culture, which arose shortly after World War II. After the war, many wanted to celebrate and forget about the hell they endured during wartime. The beautiful decor, lively colors, and delicious fruity tropical drinks lifted the spirits of many, and to this day, tiki culture is seen not only in the states but all over the world.

What a lot of people don’t realize is that tiki culture is not just Hawaiian and Polynesian-inspired drinks and decor, it is also a lifestyle. Many people who live this lifestyle are people who enjoy the island way of living without actually living on one. What is the island way of living? It’s simply taking a break from our busy lives, making a fruity island drink, and relaxing in the comfort of our own home, backyard, or if you’re lucky enough to live on the coast, a beach.

Tiki drinks in particular will lift the spirits of anyone needing a vacation but not having the luxury or the money to go on a beautiful tropical getaway. So why not bring this beautiful, lively, and relaxing culture to your next summer party or home. I am going to share with you one of my all-time favorite tiki cocktail recipes that will transport you to the very tropical getaway you dream of going to. But a tiki cocktail is not complete with the appropriate drinkware. Spice up your drinks with a Tiki Mugs Drink-ware Package 4 - Set of 4 by Bar Products.com, perfect for a luau party. Or if you want more formal drinkware, try these Tiki 8 oz. Glass Coupes or Tiki Bamboo Hi-Ball Glasses, 16-Ounce, Set Of 4 by wayfair.com. And lastly, let’s not forget Hawaii is an island of coconuts, so put your tiki drink in these Barconic Real Coconut Cup - Lacquered by barproducts.com. 

Now, let’s break in these tiki drink wear with one of my favorite tiki cocktails, the Mai Tai. This recipe, which is created by liquore.com, is a mixture of light and dark rum, along with almond syrup, fresh lime juice, and orange curaçao. Try this recipe out at your next tiki party and don’t forget to serve it in one of those fun tiki cups.

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