Check out Canada's diverse and fun wedding traditions
What's the story
Canada's wedding traditions are as diverse as its people, a reflection of the multicultural tapestry that is the country.
From east to west, couples infuse their ceremonies and celebrations with a myriad of customs and rituals, rooted in their cultural heritage and shaped by their unique tastes.
This article explores five distinct wedding traditions from across Canada, providing a glimpse into the nation's rich cultural tapestry.
Kitchen Party
The vibrant East Coast Kitchen Party
In Atlantic Canada, particularly Newfoundland and Labrador, no wedding celebration is complete without a kitchen party.
Held in houses, these parties are the heart and soul of East Coast hospitality, filled with music and dance that makes you feel like family.
Expect fiddle tunes that set your feet tapping and jigs that spring up as spontaneously as laughter. It's not just a party, it's a community coming together.
Sock dance
French-Canadian sock dance
A unique (read: weird) tradition at French-Canadian weddings is the sock dance.
Performed by the unwed brothers and sisters of the bride or groom, this dance requires them to don crazy, colorful socks and perform a goofy dance routine for guests.
And, it's not just for laughs; guests throw money at the dancers, contributing to the newlyweds' future in a fun way.
Blanket ceremony
Indigenous blanket ceremony
Indigenous weddings often feature a special blanket ceremony, a beautiful symbol of unity and a deep respect for cultural heritage.
During this ceremony, the couple is wrapped together in a single blanket, symbolizing their union and shared journey.
This heartfelt tradition emphasizes warmth, security, and community - values that resonate across Indigenous cultures throughout Canada.
Kilt tradition
Scottish influence: The kilt tradition
In regions with deep Scottish roots, like Nova Scotia or certain parts of British Columbia, kilts are often a highlight of wedding fashion.
Grooms and groomsmen may sport kilts crafted from tartan patterns symbolizing their family clan or region of origin.
This tradition not only honors Scottish heritage but also brings a dynamic touch of color and history to wedding celebrations.
Money dance
The money dance: A multicultural favourite
The money dance is a long-standing tradition held dear by Ukrainian-, Polish-, Italian-, Filipino-, and Greek-Canadian communities, to name a few.
During this joyous occasion, guests would pin money onto the dancing bride's dress or groom's suit as they twirled around.
This gesture extends wishes of good luck, prosperity, and financial support to the newlyweds as they start their new journey together.