Wedding Customs by Country 2024

Weddings around the world are rich with diverse customs and traditions, each with its own significance. In the United States, common traditions include the first dance, the ring ceremony, and the "Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue" custom. In contrast, the zaffe, a grand entrance with drumming and dancing, is central to weddings in Syria, Lebanon, and Sudan, with the Sudanese version featuring a procession of musicians and dancers escorting the bride and groom to the venue.

In Niger, the Yake tradition involves the groom's family giving gifts to the bride's family and sharing a feast, while in Palau, weddings are joyous white beach celebrations with music, dancing, feasting, and gift-giving. Greek Orthodox weddings are known for crowning the bride and groom with a stefana, two crowns joined by a ribbon. Meanwhile, Mongolian weddings showcase a hunting and archery demonstration by the groom to prove his worth.

In Puerto Rico, the Vejigante tradition involves masked dancers in colorful attire and sticks, a custom dating back to medieval Spain. Australian weddings often feature the unity candle and sand ceremony, symbolizing the merging of two lives. Barbados weddings include a Tuk band playing traditional folk music with bamboo instruments. The Chinese betrothal tradition involves the groom presenting gifts to the bride's family, with the family returning half to accept the marriage proposal.

The Italian custom of throwing rice at weddings symbolizes fertility and prosperity. German weddings may include smashing plates at the bride's home for good luck. Spanish weddings often see the bride wearing an orange bloom, representing happiness and fulfillment. In Cuba, it's customary for guests to pin money on the bride's dress in exchange for a dance. Lastly, the Mexican Lazo tradition involves a wedding lasso or rope signifying the couple's union.

Country	Custom Name	Description
Afghanistan	Mehndi ceremony	Mehndi is a traditional pre-wedding ceremony where the bride has henna applied to her hands and feet, and the guests often participate in dancing and singing.
Albania	Gun fire	Guns are fired when the bride arrives at the groom’s house and sometimes at other points during the ceremony, symbolizing joy and celebration.
Algeria	Henna night	Henna night is a pre-wedding ceremony where the bride and her female friends and relatives gather to have their hands and feet decorated with henna. It is often accompanied by music and dancing.
American Samoa	Fa'ataupati	A traditional Samoan dance performed by men.
Andorra	Bread and wine	The bride and groom share bread and wine at the end of the ceremony, symbolizing their union and mutual support.
Angola	Kucula	Kucula is a traditional Angolan wedding custom where the groom visits the bride's family to ask for her hand in marriage. He brings gifts such as cloth, salt, and sugar to show his commitment to the marriage. The bride's family may ask the groom to perform certain tasks or rituals to prove his worthiness.
Antigua and Barbuda	Jumping the broom	African American tradition where the couple jumps over a broom.
Argentina	La Vibora de la Mar	The Sea Snake dance.
Armenia	Traditional Armenian wedding	The wedding ceremony in Armenia includes the groom's family visiting the bride's house and asking for permission to marry her. The wedding reception typically includes lots of food, music, and dancing.
Australia	Unity candle or sand ceremony	A symbolic act of joining two lives into one by lighting a candle or pouring sand into a container.
Austria	Bride kidnapping	The groom’s friends kidnap the bride before or during the wedding and take her to a pub or a friend’s house, where they drink until the groom finds them.
Azerbaijan	Candle lighting	The bride’s family lights candles in their windows to announce their daughter’s availability for marriage.
Bahamas	Junkanoo	Street parade with music, dance, and costumes.
Bahrain	Al Aghd	Al Aghd is the traditional wedding ceremony in Bahrain, which includes the signing of the marriage contract and the exchange of gifts between the families of the bride and groom.
Bangladesh	Gaye Holud and Mehndi Ceremony	The Gaye Holud ceremony involves the bride and groom being covered in turmeric paste to ward off evil spirits. The Mehndi ceremony is similar to the one in India, with the bride having henna applied to her hands and feet.
Barbados	Tuk band	Procession of musicians playing bamboo instruments.
Belgium	Bridal bouquet	The bride gives her bouquet to a friend who is not married yet, hoping that she will be the next one to get married.
Belize	Money dance	Guests pay to dance with the bride and groom.
Bhutan	Reducing ceremony and traditional ceremony	The Reducing Ceremony involves the bride's hair being cut as a symbol of leaving her old life behind, and the Traditional Ceremony includes blessings from Buddhist monks and the exchange of traditional gifts between the families.
Bolivia	Tinku	Dance of indigenous origin with ritual fights.
Botswana	Lobola	Lobola is a traditional Botswanan wedding custom where the groom pays a bride price to the bride's family in exchange for her hand in marriage. The bride price may include cattle, money, and other gifts. The bride's family may also ask the groom to perform certain tasks or rituals to prove his worthiness.
Brazil	Dança dos Noivos	The Bride and Groom's Dance.
Brunei	Bersanding ceremony	The Bersanding Ceremony is the wedding reception in Brunei, where the bride and groom sit on a dais and receive guests. There is often a lot of food and music at the reception.
Bulgaria	Bread breaking	The bride and groom break a loaf of bread over their heads, and whoever gets the bigger piece will be the head of the household.
Burkina Faso	Mossi	In Burkina Faso, during the traditional engagement ceremony, brides from the Mossi (or Moagha) ethnic group are given a drink by their younger cousins.
Burundi	Gusaba	The “bride price” is the first traditional event of the whole marriage ceremony in which bride is introduced to the groom's family by giving them cows as bride price which depicts the sign of prosperity of the brides's family. This act/event, is called “Gusaba".
Cambodia	Engagement ceremony and wedding ceremony	The Engagement Ceremony involves the groom's family visiting the bride's house and exchanging gifts. The Wedding Ceremony includes a procession and traditional blessings.
Cameroon	Groom's family pays bride price	In Cameroon, the groom's family traditionally pays a bride price to the bride's family in exchange for her hand in marriage. The bride price may include money, livestock, and other gifts. The bride's family may also ask the groom to perform certain tasks or rituals to prove his worthiness.
Canada	Wedding shower	Pre-wedding party where guests give gifts to the couple.
Central African Republic	Payment of bride price	In the Central African Republic, the groom traditionally pays a bride price to the bride's family in exchange for her hand in marriage. The bride price may include money, livestock, and other gifts. The bride's family may also ask the groom to perform certain tasks or rituals to prove his worthiness.
Chad	No Bride' Wedding Celebration	The close relatives celebrate the groom by lifting him off the horse and tossing him into the air three times, in front of the entrance of his future home. He then sits in front of his hut and accepts congratulations and gifts. Horse races are a part of every wedding.
Chile	Torta de Novios	The torta is a ceremonial wedding cake.
China	The betrothal	The groom presents betrothal gifts to the bride’s parents as a formal proposal and they return half of them as an acceptance.
Colombia	Serenata de Bodas	Wedding serenade.
Comoros	Ndzumgsi	A traditional wedding custom in Comoros where the groom and his family must prepare a "bride price" to offer to the bride's family. This is a negotiation process that can last several months and involves the exchange of gifts and money between the two families.
Costa Rica	La Marcha Nupcial	The bride and groom walk down the aisle to the sounds of the wedding march.
Croatia	Apple throwing	The groom throws an apple over the roof of his house, and if it doesn’t break, it means a happy marriage.
Cuba	Money dance	Guests pin money on the bride's dress in exchange for a dance.
Denmark	Kissing game	The guests can kiss the bride or groom when their spouse leaves the room.
Djibouti	Kulam-wedding	A traditional wedding custom in Djibouti where the groom and his family must pay a "bride price" to the bride's family. The bride price includes livestock, money, and other gifts, and is negotiated between the two families.
Dominica	Wedding breakfast	A breakfast feast for the couple and their guests.
Dominican Republic	Arras	Thirteen gold coins given by the groom to the bride as a symbol of his commitment and ability to provide for her.
DR Congo	La Dot	In the Democratic Republic of Congo, the groom is required to pay a dowry to the bride's family before the wedding ceremony. This dowry, known as "La Dot," includes money, gifts, and household items such as furniture, appliances, and livestock.
Ecuador	Serenata	The groom serenades the bride the night before the wedding.
Egypt	Katb El-Kitab	Katb El-Kitab is a traditional Islamic wedding custom in Egypt where the couple signs a marriage contract in the presence of a sheikh or imam. The contract outlines the rights and obligations of the bride and groom and serves as a legal document.
El Salvador	La Marcha Nupcial	Wedding march.
Equatorial Guinea	La Guinea	In Equatorial Guinea, the groom is required to pay a dowry to the bride's family before the wedding. The dowry, known as "La Guinea," includes money, gifts, and livestock. The amount of the dowry is usually negotiated between the two families.
Eritrea	Gezane	Gezane is a traditional wedding custom in Eritrea where the groom must bring gifts and food to the bride's family. The groom is also required to pay a dowry, which can be in the form of livestock or money, and is negotiated between the two families.
Estonia	Log sawing	The bride and groom have to saw a log in half together, symbolizing teamwork and cooperation.
Eswatini	Umcwasho	In Eswatini, the groom is required to pay a dowry, known as "Umcwasho," to the bride's family before the wedding. The dowry includes money, livestock, and other gifts and is negotiated between the two families.
Ethiopia	Kidame	Kidame is a traditional wedding custom in Ethiopia where the groom and his family must pay a dowry to the bride's family. The dowry can be in the form of livestock, money, and other gifts, and is usually negotiated between the two families.
Fiji	Kava ceremony	A ritual of sharing a root-based drink that signifies respect and commitment.
Finland	Bridal sauna	The bridesmaids take the bride to a decorated sauna on the night before the wedding.
France	La Noce	The guests follow the newlyweds to different locations on their wedding day while making noise as a form of celebration.
Gabon	Bride price	The groom and his family are required to pay a "bride price" to the Gambia Libation Ceremony The groom's family performs a libation ceremony to ask for blessings from their ancestors.
Gambia	Libation ceremony	The groom's family performs a libation ceremony to ask for blessings from their ancestors. A bowl of water, kola nuts, and a bottle of gin or wine are used to perform the ceremony.
Georgia	Supra and tamada	The Supra is the traditional Georgian feast that is often held before the wedding, and the Tamada is the toastmaster who leads the drinking and toasting. The wedding ceremony itself involves the bride and groom exchanging vows and exchanging rings.
Germany	Plate smashing	The day before the wedding, plates are smashed at the bride’s home, which brings good luck.
Ghana	Kente cloth	The bride and groom wear a brightly colored, hand-woven cloth called kente, which is traditionally made of silk or cotton. The patterns on the cloth are symbolic and represent different virtues such as love, loyalty, and prosperity.
Greece	Wedding crowns	Crowns worn by the bride and groom on their wedding day signify wisdom, justice, and integrity. They also represent Aphrodite, goddess of love.
Grenada	Old-time wedding	Traditional wedding ceremony featuring the Quadrille dance.
Guatemala	Las Madrinas y Padrinos	Godmothers and godfathers who assist the couple during the wedding.
Guinea	Bride price	The groom pays a bride price to the bride's family, usually in the form of money or livestock. The amount of the bride price is negotiated between the two families.
Guinea Bissau	Sharing of palm wine	The bride and groom share a cup of palm wine as a symbol of their union. They also pour some of the wine on the ground as an offering to their ancestors.
Guyana	Jumping the broom	Couple jumps over a broomstick to symbolize sweeping away the old and welcoming the new.
Haiti	Rara	Festive street music and dance.
Honduras	La Hora Loca	The Crazy Hour - a lively celebration with masks and props.
Iceland	Wedding cake	The wedding cake is a layered ring cake decorated with marzipan and cream.
India	Mehndi ceremony	The bride and her female relatives have their hands and feet decorated with henna designs by a professional mehndi artist.
Indonesia	Siraman	The bride and groom are bathed by their parents and relatives with water mixed with flowers and herbs, to cleanse them of bad luck and prepare them for marriage.
Iran	Aghd	Aghd is the traditional Persian wedding ceremony, which includes the signing of the marriage contract and the exchange of rings. There is often music, dancing, and a large feast at the reception.
Iraq	Traditional Iraqi wedding	The traditional Iraqi wedding includes the groom's family visiting the bride's house to ask for permission to marry her. The wedding ceremony itself involves the bride and groom exchanging vows and rings, and there is often music, dancing, and food at the reception.
Ireland	Claddagh ring	The bride and groom exchange rings with a heart, a crown, and two hands, symbolizing love, loyalty, and friendship.
Israel	Chuppah and hora dance	The Chuppah is the Jewish wedding canopy under which the bride and groom stand during the ceremony. The Hora Dance is a traditional Israeli dance that often takes place at the reception.
Italy	Rice throwing	Guests throw rice over the bride and groom as they leave the church, symbolizing fertility and prosperity.
Ivory Coast	La dot	In Cote d'Ivoire, the groom is expected to pay a dowry to the bride's family, which includes money, gifts, and livestock. The amount of the dowry is usually negotiated between the two families and can take several months to finalize.
Jamaica	Jonkunnu	Parade with music and dancing.
Japan	San San Kudo	The couple and their parents take turns to sip sake from three cups of different sizes, symbolizing unity and harmony.
Jordan	Traditional Jordanian wedding	The traditional Jordanian wedding involves the bride's family visiting the groom's family to ask for permission to marry her. The wedding ceremony itself involves the bride and groom exchanging vows and rings, and there is often music, dancing, and food at the reception.
Kazakhstan	Bride kidnapping	The groom’s friends kidnap the bride before or during the wedding and demand a ransom from the groom to return her.
Kenya	Blessing from elders	The bride and groom receive a blessing from their parents and other elders in the community. They also exchange rings and light a unity candle.
Kiribati	Tevutevu ceremony	A tradition of placing mats one on top of the other to symbolize where the couple will sleep.
Kuwait	Al-Zaffa	Traditional wedding march, featuring drumming and dancing.
Kyrgyzstan	Kidnap and rescue	The groom must negotiate with the bride's family for her release after she is "kidnapped" by his friends.
Laos	Baci ceremony	A traditional ceremony to call the spirits of the bride and groom back to their bodies and to bring them good luck.
Latvia	Crowning	The bride and groom wear crowns made of flowers, leaves, or wheat, symbolizing fertility and prosperity.
Lebanon	Zaffe	A traditional wedding march featuring drumming and dancing.
Lesotho	Gift giving	The groom's family presents gifts to the bride's family, including livestock and clothing. The bride's family returns the gifts with a smaller amount of money added.
Liberia	Jumping the broom	The couple jumps over a broom as a symbol of their union. This tradition is said to have originated during the time of slavery in the United States and was adopted by Liberians during their struggle for independence.
Libya	Henna ceremony	The bride and her female relatives have a henna ceremony before the wedding. The bride's hands and feet are decorated with intricate henna designs.
Madagascar	Famadihana	The couple participates in a traditional ceremony called famadihana, in which the bones of their ancestors are exhumed and wrapped in new cloth. The couple then dance with the wrapped bones as a way of honoring their ancestors. This ceremony is only performed every few years.
Malawi	Kucotsa	The groom and his family go to the bride's home to ask for her hand in marriage.
Malaysia	Bersanding	The couple sits on a throne-like platform while guests sprinkle them with yellow rice and scented water, to wish them prosperity and happiness.
Maldives	Dhandhaanu Neshun	Traditional Maldivian music and dance performed during weddings.
Mali	Bogolanfini	The couple and their families wear traditional outfits made from handwoven cloth.
Marshall Islands	Land tenure and property	A system of inheritance and ownership of land and property based on family ties and clan membership.
Mauritania	Fatnaya	The groom's family presents gifts to the bride's family, followed by a feast.
Mauritius	Bhojpuri wedding customs	Hindu wedding customs are followed, with traditional songs and dances.
Mexico	Lazo	A wedding lasso or rope used to symbolize the union of the couple.
Micronesia	Constructed kin relations	A practice of adopting children from relatives or friends to strengthen social bonds
Mongolia	Wedding archery	The groom and his family must demonstrate their hunting and archery skills to prove their worth to the bride's family.
Morocco	Henna night	The bride's hands and feet are decorated with intricate henna designs.
Mozambique	Lobolo	The groom's family pays a dowry to the bride's family, followed by a celebration.
Myanmar	Na Tin Nyo	The groom and his family must present gifts to the bride's family, which may include betel leaves, fruit, and traditional clothing.
Namibia	Ovambo wedding customs	The bride wears a traditional outfit made of animal skin and the couple participates in a symbolic cow ceremony.
Nepal	Kanyadaan	The father of the bride gives her away to the groom during the wedding ceremony.
New Zealand	Traditional Maori weddings	A ceremony that follows deeply rooted customs and ceremonies of the native Maori people.
Nicaragua	Baile de la Vibora	A snake dance.
Niger	Yake	The groom's family presents gifts to the bride's family, followed by a feast.
Nigeria	Igbo traditional wedding	The groom and his family visit the bride's family to ask for her hand in marriage, followed by traditional wedding ceremonies.
North Korea	Traditional Korean wedding	A traditional Korean wedding typically includes a ceremony where the bride and groom exchange vows and share a drink of rice wine.
Norway	Bridal crown	The bride wears a silver or gold crown with small charms that make a tinkling sound to ward off evil spirits.
Oman	Al Azi	Traditional wedding march featuring drumming and dancing.
Pakistan	Mehndi	A pre-wedding ceremony where the bride has henna applied to her hands and feet.
Palau	White beach wedding	A romantic ceremony surrounded by the sea, the sky and the sand.
Panama	La Hora Loca	The Crazy Hour - a lively celebration with masks and props.
Papua New Guinea	Commercial transaction	A negotiation of the bride price in pigs, shells and cash between the groom’s and bride’s families.
Paraguay	Candle ceremony	Bride and groom each hold a lit candle, which they use to light a larger candle, symbolizing their union.
Peru	Arras	Thirteen coins are presented to the bride by the groom, symbolizing his commitment to support her.
Philippines	Money dance	The guests pin money bills on the bride’s gown or the groom’s suit while dancing with them, to help them start their married life.
Poland	Bread and salt	The parents of the bride and groom greet them with bread and salt at the reception, symbolizing prosperity and hospitality.
Portugal	Bolo de noiva	The wedding cake is a fruit cake with nuts and dried fruits, symbolizing abundance and fertility.
Puerto Rico	Vejigante	Masked dancers with colorful costumes and sticks.
Qatar	Traditional Qatari wedding	A traditional Qatari wedding typically includes a henna ceremony for the bride, followed by a reception with dancing and food.
Republic of the Congo	The rite of passage	The Rite of Passage is a traditional wedding custom in the Republic of the Congo where the bride is initiated into womanhood by receiving blessings and guidance from the older women in her family and community. This ceremony is considered a crucial part of the wedding.
Romania	Bride kidnapping	The groom’s friends kidnap the bride before or during the wedding and demand a ransom from the groom to return her.
Russia	Bread and salt	The parents of the bride and groom greet them with bread and salt at the reception, symbolizing prosperity and hospitality.
Rwanda	Gusaba	The groom's family presents gifts to the bride's family, followed by a feast.
Saint Kitts and Nevis	Cake pull	Charms are attached to ribbons and pulled out by bridesmaids.
Saint Lucia	La Woz	A traditional dance performed at weddings.
Sao Tome and Principe	Roça wedding customs	The couple is blessed by a priest in the Roça, followed by a feast.
Saudi Arabia	Arda	Traditional wedding march featuring drumming and sword dancing.
Senegal	Khoy	The couple participates in a traditional ceremony where they exchange gifts and are blessed by elders.
Seychelles	Kreol wedding customs	Traditional Seychellois music and dance is featured, with the bride and groom exchanging gifts.
Sierra Leone	Bondo society	The bride is initiated into the women's society, followed by a feast.
Singapore	Gate-crashing	The groom and his groomsmen have to pass a series of challenges set by the bridesmaids before they can enter the bride’s house, to prove his love and sincerity.
Somalia	Sheekooyin	Traditional Somali poetry and stories are shared, followed by a feast.
South Africa	Umabo	The couple participates in traditional ceremonies, including a gift exchange, and wear traditional attire.
South Sudan	Dinka	The bride wears a traditional beaded headdress and the couple exchanges gifts.
Spain	Orange blossom	The bride wears orange blossom in her hair or bouquet, symbolizing happiness and fulfillment.
Sri Lanka	Poruwa ceremony	A traditional ceremony where the bride and groom stand on a decorated platform and exchange vows.
Sudan	Zaffa	A procession of musicians and dancers escort the bride and groom to the wedding venue.
Suriname	Koto dress	The bride wears a traditional African dress called a koto.
Sweden	Coin exchange	The bride and groom exchange coins before the wedding ceremony, symbolizing their shared responsibility for their finances.
Syria	Zaffe	A traditional wedding march featuring drumming and dancing.
Taiwan	Guo Da Li	A traditional pre-wedding ceremony where the groom's family presents gifts to the bride's family.
Tajikistan	Plov (traditional rice dish)	Plov is a traditional dish in Tajikistan that is typically served at weddings. It is a rice dish that is made with carrots, onions, and lamb or beef. The dish is often served with raisins, apricots, and quince.
Tanzania	Send-off ceremony	The bride's family holds a ceremony to say goodbye to her, with traditional songs and dances.
Thailand	Rod Nam Sang	The couple sits on a stage while guests pour water over their hands from a conch shell, while giving them blessings and advice.
Timor Leste	Payment of bride price by the groom and his family	In Timor-Leste, the groom and his family are expected to pay a bride price to the bride's family. The amount of the bride price varies depending on the wealth and social status of the families involved.
Togo	Kpessosso	The couple exchanges gifts and are blessed by their parents, followed by a feast.
Trinidad and Tobago	Limbo	A dance where participants bend backwards and pass under a stick.
Tunisia	Henna night	The bride's hands and feet are decorated with intricate henna designs.
Turkey	Henna night	The night before the wedding, the bride’s hands and feet are decorated with henna patterns, symbolizing beauty and fertility.
Turkmenistan	Traditional wedding feast and gift-giving	In Turkmenistan, weddings are celebrated with a traditional feast, which includes a variety of dishes such as pilaf, kebabs, and dumplings. The bride and groom receive gifts from their families and friends, such as clothing, jewelry, and household items. The wedding ceremony is typically held in a mosque or in the bride's home.
Uganda	Kwanjula	The groom's family visits the bride's family to ask for her hand in marriage, followed by traditional ceremonies.
United Arab Emirates	Henna night for the bride and traditional dance performances	In the UAE, it is common for the bride to have a henna night before the wedding, during which intricate henna designs are applied to her hands and feet. Traditional dance performances, such as the Al Ayala and the Al Razfa, are often performed at weddings. These dances involve drumming and chanting, and are intended to celebrate the wedding and to bring good luck to the newlyweds.
Uruguay	El Tocado	The bride wears a crown of flowers and ribbons in her hair.
Uzbekistan	Traditional matchmaking and dowry payment	In Uzbekistan, marriages are often arranged by the families of the bride and groom. The groom's family is expected to pay a dowry to the bride's family, which can include money, clothing, and household items. The wedding ceremony is typically held in the bride's home, and is followed by a traditional feast that includes dishes such as plov and shashlik.
Venezuela	La Hora Loca	Late-night party with masks, noisemakers, and other festive props.
Vietnam	An Hoi	The groom’s family visits the bride’s family with gifts of betel nuts, fruits, cakes, and a roasted pig, to ask for their permission to marry their daughter.
Yemen	Traditional henna night for the bride and wedding feast	In Yemen, the bride has a henna night before the wedding, during which henna designs are applied to her hands and feet. The wedding feast typically includes dishes such as lamb, chicken, and rice, and is followed by dancing and music. In some parts of Yemen, the bride's face is covered with a veil during the wedding ceremony.
Zambia	Chilanga Mulilo	The couple participates in a ceremony where they are blessed by elders and exchange gifts.
Zimbabwe	Rovora	The groom's family presents gifts to the bride's family, followed by a feast.

Country

Custom Name

Description

Afghanistan

Mehndi ceremony

Mehndi is a traditional pre-wedding ceremony where the bride has henna applied to her hands and feet, and the guests often participate in dancing and singing.

Albania

Gun fire

Guns are fired when the bride arrives at the groom’s house and sometimes at other points during the ceremony, symbolizing joy and celebration.

Algeria

Henna night

Henna night is a pre-wedding ceremony where the bride and her female friends and relatives gather to have their hands and feet decorated with henna. It is often accompanied by music and dancing.

American Samoa

Fa'ataupati

A traditional Samoan dance performed by men.

Andorra

Bread and wine

The bride and groom share bread and wine at the end of the ceremony, symbolizing their union and mutual support.

Angola

Kucula

Kucula is a traditional Angolan wedding custom where the groom visits the bride's family to ask for her hand in marriage. He brings gifts such as cloth, salt, and sugar to show his commitment to the marriage. The bride's family may ask the groom to perform certain tasks or rituals to prove his worthiness.

Antigua and Barbuda

Jumping the broom

African American tradition where the couple jumps over a broom.

Argentina

La Vibora de la Mar

The Sea Snake dance.

Armenia

Traditional Armenian wedding

The wedding ceremony in Armenia includes the groom's family visiting the bride's house and asking for permission to marry her. The wedding reception typically includes lots of food, music, and dancing.

Australia

Unity candle or sand ceremony

A symbolic act of joining two lives into one by lighting a candle or pouring sand into a container.

Austria

Bride kidnapping

The groom’s friends kidnap the bride before or during the wedding and take her to a pub or a friend’s house, where they drink until the groom finds them.

Azerbaijan

Candle lighting

The bride’s family lights candles in their windows to announce their daughter’s availability for marriage.

Bahamas

Junkanoo

Street parade with music, dance, and costumes.

Bahrain

Al Aghd

Al Aghd is the traditional wedding ceremony in Bahrain, which includes the signing of the marriage contract and the exchange of gifts between the families of the bride and groom.

Bangladesh

Gaye Holud and Mehndi Ceremony

The Gaye Holud ceremony involves the bride and groom being covered in turmeric paste to ward off evil spirits. The Mehndi ceremony is similar to the one in India, with the bride having henna applied to her hands and feet.

Barbados

Tuk band

Procession of musicians playing bamboo instruments.

Belgium

Bridal bouquet

The bride gives her bouquet to a friend who is not married yet, hoping that she will be the next one to get married.

Belize

Money dance

Guests pay to dance with the bride and groom.

Bhutan

Reducing ceremony and traditional ceremony

The Reducing Ceremony involves the bride's hair being cut as a symbol of leaving her old life behind, and the Traditional Ceremony includes blessings from Buddhist monks and the exchange of traditional gifts between the families.

Bolivia

Tinku

Dance of indigenous origin with ritual fights.

Botswana

Lobola

Lobola is a traditional Botswanan wedding custom where the groom pays a bride price to the bride's family in exchange for her hand in marriage. The bride price may include cattle, money, and other gifts. The bride's family may also ask the groom to perform certain tasks or rituals to prove his worthiness.

Brazil

Dança dos Noivos

The Bride and Groom's Dance.

Brunei

Bersanding ceremony

The Bersanding Ceremony is the wedding reception in Brunei, where the bride and groom sit on a dais and receive guests. There is often a lot of food and music at the reception.

Bulgaria

Bread breaking

The bride and groom break a loaf of bread over their heads, and whoever gets the bigger piece will be the head of the household.

Burkina Faso

Mossi

In Burkina Faso, during the traditional engagement ceremony, brides from the Mossi (or Moagha) ethnic group are given a drink by their younger cousins.

Burundi

Gusaba

The “bride price” is the first traditional event of the whole marriage ceremony in which bride is introduced to the groom's family by giving them cows as bride price which depicts the sign of prosperity of the brides's family. This act/event, is called “Gusaba".

Cambodia

Engagement ceremony and wedding ceremony

The Engagement Ceremony involves the groom's family visiting the bride's house and exchanging gifts. The Wedding Ceremony includes a procession and traditional blessings.

Cameroon

Groom's family pays bride price

In Cameroon, the groom's family traditionally pays a bride price to the bride's family in exchange for her hand in marriage. The bride price may include money, livestock, and other gifts. The bride's family may also ask the groom to perform certain tasks or rituals to prove his worthiness.

Canada

Wedding shower

Pre-wedding party where guests give gifts to the couple.

Central African Republic

Payment of bride price

In the Central African Republic, the groom traditionally pays a bride price to the bride's family in exchange for her hand in marriage. The bride price may include money, livestock, and other gifts. The bride's family may also ask the groom to perform certain tasks or rituals to prove his worthiness.

Chad

No Bride' Wedding Celebration

The close relatives celebrate the groom by lifting him off the horse and tossing him into the air three times, in front of the entrance of his future home. He then sits in front of his hut and accepts congratulations and gifts. Horse races are a part of every wedding.

Chile

Torta de Novios

The torta is a ceremonial wedding cake.

China

The betrothal

The groom presents betrothal gifts to the bride’s parents as a formal proposal and they return half of them as an acceptance.

Colombia

Serenata de Bodas

Wedding serenade.

Comoros

Ndzumgsi

A traditional wedding custom in Comoros where the groom and his family must prepare a "bride price" to offer to the bride's family. This is a negotiation process that can last several months and involves the exchange of gifts and money between the two families.

Costa Rica

La Marcha Nupcial

The bride and groom walk down the aisle to the sounds of the wedding march.

Croatia

Apple throwing

The groom throws an apple over the roof of his house, and if it doesn’t break, it means a happy marriage.

Cuba

Money dance

Guests pin money on the bride's dress in exchange for a dance.

Denmark

Kissing game

The guests can kiss the bride or groom when their spouse leaves the room.

Djibouti

Kulam-wedding

A traditional wedding custom in Djibouti where the groom and his family must pay a "bride price" to the bride's family. The bride price includes livestock, money, and other gifts, and is negotiated between the two families.

Dominica

Wedding breakfast

A breakfast feast for the couple and their guests.

Dominican Republic

Arras

Thirteen gold coins given by the groom to the bride as a symbol of his commitment and ability to provide for her.

DR Congo

La Dot

In the Democratic Republic of Congo, the groom is required to pay a dowry to the bride's family before the wedding ceremony. This dowry, known as "La Dot," includes money, gifts, and household items such as furniture, appliances, and livestock.

Ecuador

Serenata

The groom serenades the bride the night before the wedding.

Egypt

Katb El-Kitab

Katb El-Kitab is a traditional Islamic wedding custom in Egypt where the couple signs a marriage contract in the presence of a sheikh or imam. The contract outlines the rights and obligations of the bride and groom and serves as a legal document.

El Salvador

La Marcha Nupcial

Wedding march.

Equatorial Guinea

La Guinea

In Equatorial Guinea, the groom is required to pay a dowry to the bride's family before the wedding. The dowry, known as "La Guinea," includes money, gifts, and livestock. The amount of the dowry is usually negotiated between the two families.

Eritrea

Gezane

Gezane is a traditional wedding custom in Eritrea where the groom must bring gifts and food to the bride's family. The groom is also required to pay a dowry, which can be in the form of livestock or money, and is negotiated between the two families.

Estonia

Log sawing

The bride and groom have to saw a log in half together, symbolizing teamwork and cooperation.

Eswatini

Umcwasho

In Eswatini, the groom is required to pay a dowry, known as "Umcwasho," to the bride's family before the wedding. The dowry includes money, livestock, and other gifts and is negotiated between the two families.

Ethiopia

Kidame

Kidame is a traditional wedding custom in Ethiopia where the groom and his family must pay a dowry to the bride's family. The dowry can be in the form of livestock, money, and other gifts, and is usually negotiated between the two families.

Fiji

Kava ceremony

A ritual of sharing a root-based drink that signifies respect and commitment.

Finland

Bridal sauna

The bridesmaids take the bride to a decorated sauna on the night before the wedding.

France

La Noce

The guests follow the newlyweds to different locations on their wedding day while making noise as a form of celebration.

Gabon

Bride price

The groom and his family are required to pay a "bride price" to the Gambia Libation Ceremony The groom's family performs a libation ceremony to ask for blessings from their ancestors.

Gambia

Libation ceremony

The groom's family performs a libation ceremony to ask for blessings from their ancestors. A bowl of water, kola nuts, and a bottle of gin or wine are used to perform the ceremony.

Georgia

Supra and tamada

The Supra is the traditional Georgian feast that is often held before the wedding, and the Tamada is the toastmaster who leads the drinking and toasting. The wedding ceremony itself involves the bride and groom exchanging vows and exchanging rings.

Germany

Plate smashing

The day before the wedding, plates are smashed at the bride’s home, which brings good luck.

Ghana

Kente cloth

The bride and groom wear a brightly colored, hand-woven cloth called kente, which is traditionally made of silk or cotton. The patterns on the cloth are symbolic and represent different virtues such as love, loyalty, and prosperity.

Greece

Wedding crowns

Crowns worn by the bride and groom on their wedding day signify wisdom, justice, and integrity. They also represent Aphrodite, goddess of love.

Grenada

Old-time wedding

Traditional wedding ceremony featuring the Quadrille dance.

Guatemala

Las Madrinas y Padrinos

Godmothers and godfathers who assist the couple during the wedding.

Guinea

Bride price

The groom pays a bride price to the bride's family, usually in the form of money or livestock. The amount of the bride price is negotiated between the two families.

Guinea Bissau

Sharing of palm wine

The bride and groom share a cup of palm wine as a symbol of their union. They also pour some of the wine on the ground as an offering to their ancestors.

Guyana

Jumping the broom

Couple jumps over a broomstick to symbolize sweeping away the old and welcoming the new.

Haiti

Rara

Festive street music and dance.

Honduras

La Hora Loca

The Crazy Hour - a lively celebration with masks and props.

Iceland

Wedding cake

The wedding cake is a layered ring cake decorated with marzipan and cream.

India

Mehndi ceremony

The bride and her female relatives have their hands and feet decorated with henna designs by a professional mehndi artist.

Indonesia

Siraman

The bride and groom are bathed by their parents and relatives with water mixed with flowers and herbs, to cleanse them of bad luck and prepare them for marriage.

Iran

Aghd

Aghd is the traditional Persian wedding ceremony, which includes the signing of the marriage contract and the exchange of rings. There is often music, dancing, and a large feast at the reception.

Iraq

Traditional Iraqi wedding

The traditional Iraqi wedding includes the groom's family visiting the bride's house to ask for permission to marry her. The wedding ceremony itself involves the bride and groom exchanging vows and rings, and there is often music, dancing, and food at the reception.

Ireland

Claddagh ring

The bride and groom exchange rings with a heart, a crown, and two hands, symbolizing love, loyalty, and friendship.

Israel

Chuppah and hora dance

The Chuppah is the Jewish wedding canopy under which the bride and groom stand during the ceremony. The Hora Dance is a traditional Israeli dance that often takes place at the reception.

Italy

Rice throwing

Guests throw rice over the bride and groom as they leave the church, symbolizing fertility and prosperity.

Ivory Coast

La dot

In Cote d'Ivoire, the groom is expected to pay a dowry to the bride's family, which includes money, gifts, and livestock. The amount of the dowry is usually negotiated between the two families and can take several months to finalize.

Jamaica

Jonkunnu

Parade with music and dancing.

Japan

San San Kudo

The couple and their parents take turns to sip sake from three cups of different sizes, symbolizing unity and harmony.

Jordan

Traditional Jordanian wedding

The traditional Jordanian wedding involves the bride's family visiting the groom's family to ask for permission to marry her. The wedding ceremony itself involves the bride and groom exchanging vows and rings, and there is often music, dancing, and food at the reception.

Kazakhstan

Bride kidnapping

The groom’s friends kidnap the bride before or during the wedding and demand a ransom from the groom to return her.

Kenya

Blessing from elders

The bride and groom receive a blessing from their parents and other elders in the community. They also exchange rings and light a unity candle.

Kiribati

Tevutevu ceremony

A tradition of placing mats one on top of the other to symbolize where the couple will sleep.

Kuwait

Al-Zaffa

Traditional wedding march, featuring drumming and dancing.

Kyrgyzstan

Kidnap and rescue

The groom must negotiate with the bride's family for her release after she is "kidnapped" by his friends.

Laos

Baci ceremony

A traditional ceremony to call the spirits of the bride and groom back to their bodies and to bring them good luck.

Latvia

Crowning

The bride and groom wear crowns made of flowers, leaves, or wheat, symbolizing fertility and prosperity.

Lebanon

Zaffe

A traditional wedding march featuring drumming and dancing.

Lesotho

Gift giving

The groom's family presents gifts to the bride's family, including livestock and clothing. The bride's family returns the gifts with a smaller amount of money added.

Liberia

Jumping the broom

The couple jumps over a broom as a symbol of their union. This tradition is said to have originated during the time of slavery in the United States and was adopted by Liberians during their struggle for independence.

Libya

Henna ceremony

The bride and her female relatives have a henna ceremony before the wedding. The bride's hands and feet are decorated with intricate henna designs.

Madagascar

Famadihana

The couple participates in a traditional ceremony called famadihana, in which the bones of their ancestors are exhumed and wrapped in new cloth. The couple then dance with the wrapped bones as a way of honoring their ancestors. This ceremony is only performed every few years.

Malawi

Kucotsa

The groom and his family go to the bride's home to ask for her hand in marriage.

Malaysia

Bersanding

The couple sits on a throne-like platform while guests sprinkle them with yellow rice and scented water, to wish them prosperity and happiness.

Maldives

Dhandhaanu Neshun

Traditional Maldivian music and dance performed during weddings.

Mali

Bogolanfini

The couple and their families wear traditional outfits made from handwoven cloth.

Marshall Islands

Land tenure and property

A system of inheritance and ownership of land and property based on family ties and clan membership.

Mauritania

Fatnaya

The groom's family presents gifts to the bride's family, followed by a feast.

Mauritius

Bhojpuri wedding customs

Hindu wedding customs are followed, with traditional songs and dances.

Mexico

Lazo

A wedding lasso or rope used to symbolize the union of the couple.

Micronesia

Constructed kin relations

A practice of adopting children from relatives or friends to strengthen social bonds

Mongolia

Wedding archery

The groom and his family must demonstrate their hunting and archery skills to prove their worth to the bride's family.

Morocco

Henna night

The bride's hands and feet are decorated with intricate henna designs.

Mozambique

Lobolo

The groom's family pays a dowry to the bride's family, followed by a celebration.

Myanmar

Na Tin Nyo

The groom and his family must present gifts to the bride's family, which may include betel leaves, fruit, and traditional clothing.

Namibia

Ovambo wedding customs

The bride wears a traditional outfit made of animal skin and the couple participates in a symbolic cow ceremony.

Nepal

Kanyadaan

The father of the bride gives her away to the groom during the wedding ceremony.

New Zealand

Traditional Maori weddings

A ceremony that follows deeply rooted customs and ceremonies of the native Maori people.

Nicaragua

Baile de la Vibora

A snake dance.

Niger

Yake

The groom's family presents gifts to the bride's family, followed by a feast.

Nigeria

Igbo traditional wedding

The groom and his family visit the bride's family to ask for her hand in marriage, followed by traditional wedding ceremonies.

North Korea

Traditional Korean wedding

A traditional Korean wedding typically includes a ceremony where the bride and groom exchange vows and share a drink of rice wine.

Norway

Bridal crown

The bride wears a silver or gold crown with small charms that make a tinkling sound to ward off evil spirits.

Oman

Al Azi

Traditional wedding march featuring drumming and dancing.

Pakistan

Mehndi

A pre-wedding ceremony where the bride has henna applied to her hands and feet.

Palau

White beach wedding

A romantic ceremony surrounded by the sea, the sky and the sand.

Panama

La Hora Loca

The Crazy Hour - a lively celebration with masks and props.

Papua New Guinea

Commercial transaction

A negotiation of the bride price in pigs, shells and cash between the groom’s and bride’s families.

Paraguay

Candle ceremony

Bride and groom each hold a lit candle, which they use to light a larger candle, symbolizing their union.

Peru

Arras

Thirteen coins are presented to the bride by the groom, symbolizing his commitment to support her.

Philippines

Money dance

The guests pin money bills on the bride’s gown or the groom’s suit while dancing with them, to help them start their married life.

Poland

Bread and salt

The parents of the bride and groom greet them with bread and salt at the reception, symbolizing prosperity and hospitality.

Portugal

Bolo de noiva

The wedding cake is a fruit cake with nuts and dried fruits, symbolizing abundance and fertility.

Puerto Rico

Vejigante

Masked dancers with colorful costumes and sticks.

Qatar

Traditional Qatari wedding

A traditional Qatari wedding typically includes a henna ceremony for the bride, followed by a reception with dancing and food.

Republic of the Congo

The rite of passage

The Rite of Passage is a traditional wedding custom in the Republic of the Congo where the bride is initiated into womanhood by receiving blessings and guidance from the older women in her family and community. This ceremony is considered a crucial part of the wedding.

Romania

Bride kidnapping

The groom’s friends kidnap the bride before or during the wedding and demand a ransom from the groom to return her.

Russia

Bread and salt

The parents of the bride and groom greet them with bread and salt at the reception, symbolizing prosperity and hospitality.

Rwanda

Gusaba

The groom's family presents gifts to the bride's family, followed by a feast.

Saint Kitts and Nevis

Cake pull

Charms are attached to ribbons and pulled out by bridesmaids.

Saint Lucia

La Woz

A traditional dance performed at weddings.

Sao Tome and Principe

Roça wedding customs

The couple is blessed by a priest in the Roça, followed by a feast.

Saudi Arabia

Arda

Traditional wedding march featuring drumming and sword dancing.

Senegal

Khoy

The couple participates in a traditional ceremony where they exchange gifts and are blessed by elders.

Seychelles

Kreol wedding customs

Traditional Seychellois music and dance is featured, with the bride and groom exchanging gifts.

Sierra Leone

Bondo society

The bride is initiated into the women's society, followed by a feast.

Singapore

Gate-crashing

The groom and his groomsmen have to pass a series of challenges set by the bridesmaids before they can enter the bride’s house, to prove his love and sincerity.

Somalia

Sheekooyin

Traditional Somali poetry and stories are shared, followed by a feast.

South Africa

Umabo

The couple participates in traditional ceremonies, including a gift exchange, and wear traditional attire.

South Sudan

Dinka

The bride wears a traditional beaded headdress and the couple exchanges gifts.

Spain

Orange blossom

The bride wears orange blossom in her hair or bouquet, symbolizing happiness and fulfillment.

Sri Lanka

Poruwa ceremony

A traditional ceremony where the bride and groom stand on a decorated platform and exchange vows.

Sudan

Zaffa

A procession of musicians and dancers escort the bride and groom to the wedding venue.

Suriname

Koto dress

The bride wears a traditional African dress called a koto.

Sweden

Coin exchange

The bride and groom exchange coins before the wedding ceremony, symbolizing their shared responsibility for their finances.

Syria

Zaffe

A traditional wedding march featuring drumming and dancing.

Taiwan

Guo Da Li

A traditional pre-wedding ceremony where the groom's family presents gifts to the bride's family.

Tajikistan

Plov (traditional rice dish)

Plov is a traditional dish in Tajikistan that is typically served at weddings. It is a rice dish that is made with carrots, onions, and lamb or beef. The dish is often served with raisins, apricots, and quince.

Tanzania

Send-off ceremony

The bride's family holds a ceremony to say goodbye to her, with traditional songs and dances.

Thailand

Rod Nam Sang

The couple sits on a stage while guests pour water over their hands from a conch shell, while giving them blessings and advice.

Timor Leste

Payment of bride price by the groom and his family

In Timor-Leste, the groom and his family are expected to pay a bride price to the bride's family. The amount of the bride price varies depending on the wealth and social status of the families involved.

Togo

Kpessosso

The couple exchanges gifts and are blessed by their parents, followed by a feast.

Trinidad and Tobago

Limbo

A dance where participants bend backwards and pass under a stick.

Tunisia

Henna night

The bride's hands and feet are decorated with intricate henna designs.

Turkey

Henna night

The night before the wedding, the bride’s hands and feet are decorated with henna patterns, symbolizing beauty and fertility.

Turkmenistan

Traditional wedding feast and gift-giving

In Turkmenistan, weddings are celebrated with a traditional feast, which includes a variety of dishes such as pilaf, kebabs, and dumplings. The bride and groom receive gifts from their families and friends, such as clothing, jewelry, and household items. The wedding ceremony is typically held in a mosque or in the bride's home.

Uganda

Kwanjula

The groom's family visits the bride's family to ask for her hand in marriage, followed by traditional ceremonies.

United Arab Emirates

Henna night for the bride and traditional dance performances

In the UAE, it is common for the bride to have a henna night before the wedding, during which intricate henna designs are applied to her hands and feet. Traditional dance performances, such as the Al Ayala and the Al Razfa, are often performed at weddings. These dances involve drumming and chanting, and are intended to celebrate the wedding and to bring good luck to the newlyweds.

Uruguay

El Tocado

The bride wears a crown of flowers and ribbons in her hair.

Uzbekistan

Traditional matchmaking and dowry payment

In Uzbekistan, marriages are often arranged by the families of the bride and groom. The groom's family is expected to pay a dowry to the bride's family, which can include money, clothing, and household items. The wedding ceremony is typically held in the bride's home, and is followed by a traditional feast that includes dishes such as plov and shashlik.

Venezuela

La Hora Loca

Late-night party with masks, noisemakers, and other festive props.

Vietnam

An Hoi

The groom’s family visits the bride’s family with gifts of betel nuts, fruits, cakes, and a roasted pig, to ask for their permission to marry their daughter.

Yemen

Traditional henna night for the bride and wedding feast

In Yemen, the bride has a henna night before the wedding, during which henna designs are applied to her hands and feet. The wedding feast typically includes dishes such as lamb, chicken, and rice, and is followed by dancing and music. In some parts of Yemen, the bride's face is covered with a veil during the wedding ceremony.

Zambia

Chilanga Mulilo

The couple participates in a ceremony where they are blessed by elders and exchange gifts.

Zimbabwe

Rovora

The groom's family presents gifts to the bride's family, followed by a feast.

Wedding Customs by Country 2024

Which country has the best wedding traditions?

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources