Grass Skirts, Leis Welcome at American Legion Luau

Grass skirts and leis should be abundant and mai tais flowing this Saturday at the second American Legions Post 1231 Luau. 

The grounds of the American Legion Hall, 1101 W. Algonquin Road, will be transformed into an island paradise, with pulled pork and steak kabobs cooking on the grill and beer and mai tais served.

Sponsored by the American Legion Post 1231 Auxiliary and the Sons of the American Legion, the event drew about 100 people last year, said Auxiliary President Shelley Walenga.

This year, there will be live music by Phidget from 7 until 11 p.m., and food will be served starting at 6 p.m. Ticket prices are $12 for both food and music and $5 just for the band, with food items also sold separately.

Money raised at the event will benefit needy children in the area and go to fix up the American Legion Hall, Walenga said.

“Our goal is to help provide money for children’s programs – to help children in the area who are in need,” Walenga said of the auxiliary.

The auxiliary gives money to groups like Hearts of Gold, which helps at-risk children, and Special Olympics. The group also provides its own events for children, such as an annual Christmas party, Walenga said.

New this year: A costume contest will be held at the luau, Walenga said.

For more information, call the Legion at 847-658-2010.