Summer can be traditionally slow for the tourism and hospitality industries in South Florida, but not at the Mai-Kai. The historic Polynesian restaurant kicked off the season in early June with The Hukilau, the annual Tiki weekender that attracts hundreds of guests from around the world. This was followed by a constant stream of special events that continues in July with some unique offerings.
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Breaking news: Mai-Kai owner takes over historic Jungle Queen riverboat
Event previews: July spotlights Tahitian culture, vendor marketplace
News also recently broke regarding new ownership of another Fort Lauderdale landmark. Fans of classic attractions and dining experiences will be thrilled to know that the venerable Jungle Queen is now under the control of Bill Fuller, the Miami historic preservationist who is also the managing partner of the Mai-Kai. Look for full coverage below.
Also below, you’ll find a rundown on the special Tahiti Fête cultural activities coming to the Polynesian palace this month, including craft and dance classes, special shows, and more. We’ll then share photos, video and first-person accounts of some of the unique events in June, starting with The Hukilau.
More below: Special event photos, video
• Heritage: A Polynesian Legacy, the Mai-Kai’s updated dinner show
• Tiki weekender honors a legend, welcomes Charles Phoenix | More events and news
The East Coast’s longest running gathering of Polynesian Pop enthusiasts, which ran from five days starting June 3, included Mai-Kai parties and special presentations on three of those. This included the debut of a revamped dinner show on June 5 and the exclusive Florida appearance of retro culture humorist and historian Charles Phoenix on June 7.
Look for full coverage of all The Hukilau festivities at the Mai-Kai below, including reviews of the exclusive food and beverages that were served all weekend. We’ll take this opportunity to share a new tribute recipe for one of the classic drinks in advance of the upcoming relaunch of our Mai-Kai Cocktail Guide.
Food and drink reviews and recipe below
• Our take on reimagined classics | Tribute to Demerara Float
Check out our related story for lots of photos and video from the Beachcomber Resort and Mai-Kai shared from social media. We also plan another recap that covers the happenings at the hotel.
More Mai-Kai news is brewing, so stay tuned for some exciting updates.