Hawaii has long been considered a tropical paradise. People always see themselves amid crystal waves or lounging on a white sand beach. Many people from around the world find themselves there over the Christmas holidays. It seems only fitting to send gifts that fit the flavor of this culture to friends and family. A new trend in gift giving is the porcelain Hawaiian Father Christmas Dolls. These delightful figures are in high demand by doll collectors from around the world.

Hawaii offers a different culture altogether for this special occasion and adds a magical feel to the holiday season. Santa doesn't arrive in a red sleigh with reindeer. He arrives in a red outrigger canoe with dolphins. Christmas carols are played on the ukulele. The standard American fruitcakes are not a popular holiday dessert in Hawaii. The islanders prefer macadamia nut confections of various types.

Hawaii didn't always celebrate Christmas. The island only heard about the holiday through settling Europeans. Common estimates indicate Christmas first came to the islands around 1786. The holiday festivities consisted of celebration on board the Queen Charlotte. Coincidentally the Christmas season coincided with a preexisting holiday on the island. Native Hawaiians held festivities much like the American Thanksgiving as a way of thanking the earth for her abundance. The Christmas holiday gained an established foothold in island life when it was celebrated 1837.

Today, Christmas trees are imported long before the actual season arrives. Santa's elves also get into the spirit by being fitted with aloha shirts. The islanders enjoy a large community luau instead of the traditional roast turkey and ham. Lights aren't only placed on doors or windows as in America. Many islanders even decorate their automobiles with Christmas lights and parade them up and down the streets. Individuals who can't afford imported Christmas trees are just as festive. Christmas decorations on palm trees and other local vegetation are common.

No expense is spared for Christmas celebrations in Hawaii. Honolulu features a Norfolk pine Christmas tree that is fifty feet tall. The usual garlands are often made from silk or fresh flower leis. Islanders are known for their generosity and that means purchasing gifts for everyone.

No Christmas in Hawaii would be complete without attention to the traditional gifts of the islands. The art of crafting dolls is an ancient practice in Hawaii. The first were made from natural materials commonly found on the island. The unique foliage of Hawaii gave the dolls a unique and exotic appeal.

It was only a matter of time before doll making became a central part of Christmas. The handmade Hawaiian dolls today can be found in a variety of mediums. Many doll makers combine porcelain with natural materials to create the final product. Other artists still choose to utilize the natural materials found around the islands. Intricate fantasy Hawaiian dolls are crafted from wood. These detailed figures can make a magnificent addition to your home decor and provide an interesting visual piece of art.

Hawaiian Christmas Santa dolls are made in a variety of designs. The most popular figures portray Santa enjoying the many pastimes available on the islands. Hawaiian Christmas Santa dolls portray him surfing and swimming in Hawaii.

Collectible dolls make a wonderful gift. The Hawaiian Christmas dolls make a great centerpiece to any home decor and ensure delightful conversation when they are noticed. Hawaiian Father Christmas and Hawaiian Santa dolls can add an exotic touch to your Christmas festivities.