DaytonDailyNews.com

Matt Thatcher was 5 years old when he started wearing a carved Tiki God on his necklace. He got the carving as a gift from his parents, following a visit to Hawaii. Thus, the boy from Columbus continued his love for Polynesian culture.

Twenty-five years later, while surfing in the Virgin Islands, he lost his cherished necklace. But Thatcher, who presents the fourth annual Hot Rod Hula Hop near Columbus on Aug. 8-9, never lost his love for Polynesian culture.

"The original concept was to put on a great show that even we would think was worth paying for," said Thatcher, 35, event planner and president of a charitable social organization of Tiki enthusiasts — the Fraternal Order of Moai.

The Aug. 8 luau will kick off with Feast of the Tiki Gods, which will include entertainment by the Boston-based modern exotica band Waitiki. Also expected to perform are Hawaiian-born guitarist Francis Llacuna, ukulele player Pablus from the Crazed Mugs, traditional hula dancing by Leilani and Columbus rockabilly band Vegas 66. Tickets to the Aug. 8 event are $25 and include an all-you-can-eat buffet.

"Friday (Aug. 8), you'll see the more traditional Polynesian themes, while Saturday is more of a mix," Thatcher said.

The Aug. 9 event will begin at 10 a.m. and will include a vintage car show and live entertainment. Tickets are $20.

"People will come in and see some very crazy things and have a very unique experience," Thatcher said.

Contact this reporter at hkamakil@Dayton

DailyNews.com.

How to go

What: Fourth annual Hot Rod Hula Hop

When: 7 p.m. Aug. 8; 10 a.m. Aug. 9

Where: Largo's Tavern, 6159 E. Glick Road, Powell (near Columbus)

More info: Go online to www.hotrodhulahop.com