Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa, on Oahu, provides authentic island activities with a focus on Hawaiian culture. But, since it’s Disney, there are also lots of interactive character experiences — including a daily breakfast buffet with visits from Disney characters dressed in colorful Hawaiian attire, and poolside fun and games with Goofy (wearing goofy swimwear, of course). In 2016, the resort introduced an additional character experience at Makahiki restaurant called Menehune Mischief.
“Dining with characters is a signature experience at Disney Resorts around the world,” said Timothy Gustie, food and beverage director at Aulani. “Our character dinner offering Menehune Mischief is so popular that we have added a second show each night, and more show dates will be added during the summer.”
The dinner show celebrates the Menehune — magical little people from Hawaiian legends. During the evening, Uncle, a beloved character at Aulani, and other favorite Disney characters bring the legend of the Menehune to life through storytelling and sing-alongs.
“I’m sharing stories from my favorite book about the Menehune — people who have lived here in the islands for a very, very long time,” Uncle says during the program as he holds up a magical illuminated book. “Many of our favorite stories can be found in books just like mine, and others are found in our music."
Sign Up for Our Monthly Family Getaways Newsletter
I accept the T&C and Privacy Policy.
At several points during the show, Uncle invites the keiki (kids) to sing and dance along with him and Chip, Dale and Stitch — including a rousing parade through Makahiki while singing Butch Helemano’s “One Banana” and carrying shakers shaped like (what else?) bananas. If clients look carefully, they might spot a few Menehune carvings hidden in the restaurant, and when Uncle taps his magical stick three times, the Menehune can be heard giggling from their hiding places.
During the Menehune Mischief dinner show, guests also enjoy a delicious buffet that offers fresh, locally-sourced menu items, such as fresh sushi and sashimi; rotating carving stations; Asian-inspired entrees; a wide variety of fresh salads and fruits; and decadent desserts. Plus, a “Keiki Corner” offers special dishes just for kids, such as macaroni and cheese and chicken tenders.
Since this is a character experience, every family gets a photo with Donald Duck at the entrance, but they can also expect plenty of opportunities to take selfies with Chip, Dale and Stitch as they make their way around the dining room during the evening.
The Menehune Mischief character dinner experience is $52 for adults and $29 for kids (ages 3-9). There are two 45-minute shows at 5:15 p.m. and 7:15 p.m. on Sunday, Monday and Thursday, and from June 13 through Aug. 29, there will also be shows on Wednesdays.
The Details
Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa
www.disneyaulani.com
