SAN DIEGO (KGTV) — The world's largest tiki party kicks off on Shelter Island Wednesday.
Tiki Oasis will pack five days full of the island life, with live music and DJs, tiki vendors, a car show, seminars, and much more to satisfy your tiki fascination.
Seminars include a presentation on 90 years of San Diego's local tiki history, tiki cocktail construction, storytelling, and even how to construct your own tiki.
INTERACTIVE MAP: Where to celebrate San Diego's tiki scene
Wednesday night, the oasis gets underway with a meet-and-mingle at the iconic Bali Hai, known in its own right for tropical drinks and vibes. The multi-day party continues at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Mission Valley, where attendees fully immerse themselves in Polynesian Pop.
As seminars get underway, attendees can also peruse through a line up of tiki vendors, who have everything from jewelry to vintage clothing to houseware. Whatever you need to inject some tiki into your life.
An art show featuring tiki-themed art and classic car show is also planned. Live performances from several local bands taught in the ways of righteous island vibes will also carry guests through the weekend.
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San Diego's celebrate tiki scene didn't pop out of thin air. While the event itself was first held in 2001 before relocating to San Diego in 2006, the interest dates back locally since Tijuana's Aloha Cafe was founded in 1928. The Bali Hai restaurant opened in 1954, further propelling the Polynesian Pop scene.
Today, several establishments, like The Grass Skirt, False Idol, and Miss B's Coconut Club add to local tiki flare.
More information...
What: Tiki Oasis
Website: tikioasis.com
Where: Wednesday: Bali Hai on Shelter Island; Thursday - Sunday: The Crowne Plaza Hotel, Mission Valley
Tickets: $30 - $155
