What happens at a Greek wedding reception?
We all love dancing at wedding receptions. Traditional Greek wedding dances, from the Tsamiko to the Zeibekiko and the Sirtaki, are where the guests hold hands and dance in a circle. The newlyweds traditionally share the last dance of the night, and guests can throw money at them or pin money to their clothes.
What are some wedding traditions in Greece?
Greek wedding ceremonies feature an elaborate ritual with the crowns. First, the priest places a crown on both the bride and groom’s head. Then, the Koumbaros, or wedding sponsor, intertwines the crowns three times to symbolize the couple’s union. Finally, the crowns are tied together with a ribbon.
How long does a Greek wedding reception last?
A Greek Orthodox Wedding generally last about 30 to 60 minutes. For the most part the following is what you are likely to see. Often throughout the ceremony many things are done in three’s, in fact almost everything is done in odd numbers. The number three represents the Holy Trinity – the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost.
Who pays for the Greek wedding?
Who pays for a Greek wedding? The parents of the couples may pay for the venue and wedding ceremony. However, the Koumbaro and Koumbara will most likely pay for the crowns and candles that are used in the traditional Greek Orthodox wedding ceremony performances.
Why do Greeks throw rice at a wedding?
Weddings are filled with heart-warming traditions that are as infused with meaning for the couple as they are for their guests. One such tradition is the throwing of rice at the newly married couple, a long-held symbol of good luck, fertility and abundance.
What do the Greek say when they smash a plate?
The word “Opa” actually means something like oops! or whoops! or Watch out! In dedicated plate smashing sessions, it means pay attention. The word is so embedded in the ritual that when you hear the word Opa! you expect to hear a plate breaking.
Why do they smash plates at Greek weddings?
It is also done as an act of joy. Greeks believe a joyous occasion or celebration also attracts evil spirits, and to ward it off, plates are smashed to indicate that such a violent and aggressive act means no celebration can take place anywhere near.
What do you shout at a Greek wedding?
Να ζήσετε (na zisete)! This is the main phrase to congratulate the married couple. It would be translated as “may you live” but what it actually means to imply is a wish for a long life together that will be full of health and prosperity.
What is Greek tradition of engagement?
It is mostly followed in the province, and like most major events in the social life of Greeks, a priest is invited to bless the engagement rings, which are tied on a red ribbon and placed before a Virgin Mary icon. The two rings are then given to the couple, who must wear them on their left ring fingers.
Why do they spit on the Bride at Greek weddings?
There is also a very old Greek tradition that requires to “spit” on the Bride and Groom. Of course, no literally. But by pretending that spitting on the happy couple the guest protect them from evil spirits!
What do Greek people say when they smash plates?
Opa
The word “Opa” actually means something like oops! or whoops! or Watch out! In dedicated plate smashing sessions, it means pay attention. The word is so embedded in the ritual that when you hear the word Opa! you expect to hear a plate breaking.