Though luau are standard fare in the Islands, it's important that you know what kind of luau you are looking for. They're Hawaii's way of saying, "Let's party." There'll be dancing, singing, plenty of laughs and lots of food. The main course is almost always kalua pig, which is a whole pig cooked in an imu, or underground oven, then unearthed with a short, traditional ceremony, shredded and served with an array of side dishes that often include sweet potatoes, poi, lomi-lomi salmon, fresh fish, macaroni salad and an array of desserts. After the food comes the entertainment, which is usually some form of Polynesian review.

That's the typical format, but not all luaus are alike — not by a long shot. Backyard luaus, often held to celebrate birthdays, graduations, weddings and other special events, are private parties, sometimes attended by hundreds of invited guests. Commercial luaus are available to anyone who buys a ticket. You'll find them throughout the islands, some in outdoor settings, others on the grounds of resorts or restaurants. Since each has its unique signature, you might want to ask a few questions before you book a seat.

Check on the number of guests that can be accommodated. Ask about the format. Will you see an international show, a Polynesian show, a sugar-era performance? Is a fire dancer part of the entertainment and are the dancers professional or amateurs? Questions about the food and bar service may also be revealing. How long is the bar open? Is service included in the luau ticket price or will you pay more after the first drink? What's on the menu? What's for dessert? How long is food available? Will you pay extra for a photo? Is the luau inside or outside? What happens when it rains? Is there a cancellation or no-show policy?

Kauai offers a variety of commercial luaus, no one exactly like the other. Smith's Luau and International Pageant at the Wailua Marina State Park, is the oldest luau on the island. It's staged Monday, Wednesday and Friday evenings in a beautiful tropical garden and features a traditional imu ceremony with dinner entertainment. Gates open at 5 p.m., the imu ceremony begins at 6 p.m. and the pageant at 8 p.m. Luau Kilohana is held on the grounds of Kilohana, an historic estate located on a former sugar plantation just south of Lihue. Food for the luau is prepared in the kitchens of Gaylord's, a fine dining restaurant located at Kilohana. The luau, staged on Tuesdays and Thursdays, begins at about 5 p.m. with cultural activities on the lawn. The luau and hula show begin at 6:15 p.m.

The Radisson Kauai Beach Resort, north of Lihue, features the Kauai Aloha Luau. Three generations of Hawaiian entertainers highlight this energetic show, which showcases Tahitian dancing and drumming performed by the award-winning Rohotu dance company.

On the North Shore, the Princeville Hotel stages its Pa'ina O Hanalei luau every Monday and Thursday evening. This luau takes place at sunset on the hotel's Hanalei Bay beach. Kalua pig is cooked in a nearby imu as guests sip mai tais and watch the sun set behind Bali Hai. Food is served at 6 p.m. followed by a Polynesian show at 8 p.m.