Organizing the second annual Big Kahuna Bash was a real catch-22 in the era of COVID-19.
On one hand, the organizers and performers for the South Pacific-themed music fest and cocktail soiree know the risks of holding such an event right now. On the other hand, they're also all extra gung-ho for the escapist value that was the festival's original intent.
"It seemed like the people who love tiki culture really needed this as a consolation prize," organizer David Moe explained.
Still on target for Saturday outside and inside Grumpy's Roseville, Big Kahuna is a celebration of the American G.I. postwar adaptation of South Pacific culture. It boasts authentic Mai Tai cocktails, Polynesian art and food, and live music, including "Surfin' Bird" guitarist Tony Andreason of the Trashmen and Elvis tribute singer Anthony Shore.
This year, of course, it will also ride a new wave of safety precautions.
Temperatures will be taken at the door, masks will be required, and ticket sales are being limited to about 200 people. Tables and standing areas will be 6 feet apart.
While not exactly the Honolulu-breezy, laid-back vibe the event seeks to re-create in a suburban parking lot, any semblance of that feel-good aesthetic is welcome, the participants say.
"I think people need this after being locked down for so long," said Andreason, who's "coming out of retirement" to play the event the second year in a row.