Weddings in Calabria are a true celebration of local culture and traditions, reflected in the wedding rites, cuisine, music, and dances. Here are some of the key customs and traditions that characterize Calabrian weddings:
- The Marriage Proposal Traditionally, the marriage proposal is a formal “courtship” in which the groom’s family visits the bride’s home to ask for her hand in marriage. This custom is still present in some areas, although today it tends to be more informal.
- The Dowry A tradition rooted in the past, especially in rural areas, is the “dowry.” This involved a set of assets (often land, money, or movable property) that the bride’s family would provide as a “contribution” to the newlywed couple. While the dowry is no longer common, it still holds symbolic meaning in some rural areas.
- The Wedding Day The wedding day is an event rich in rituals. The bride generally wears a white dress, but the “grandmother’s dress” (a gown passed down through generations) can also be a traditional option. The religious ceremony is very important, especially in more religious communities, and is often held in the local church with a solemn Mass.
- The Wedding Procession After the ceremony, the wedding procession heads from the church to the reception venue. In Calabria, it is common for the procession to be accompanied by traditional music, such as a brass band, and sometimes spontaneous dancing along the way.
- The Wedding Banquet The wedding lunch or dinner in Calabria is a crucial moment. Calabrian cuisine, known for its savory and hearty dishes, plays a central role. Some typical dishes served at a Calabrian wedding include:
- “Cavatelli” (homemade pasta)
- Roast meat, especially lamb and pork
- Typical cheeses like caciocavallo
- Hot peppers and spicy dishes
- Traditional sweets like “pitte” (shortcrust pastry filled with mustard or jam), “torrone,” and “bocconotti.”
- Dance and Music Folk music is an essential part of a Calabrian wedding. Traditional dances, such as the “tarantella,” are very common, and relatives and friends often dance together to celebrate. The music, either live with the band or recorded, enlivens the reception, creating a joyful and convivial atmosphere.
- The Bride’s Dance Another tradition involves the bride’s dance. The bride often dances first, sometimes accompanied by family members or close friends. It is also traditional for the bride to throw the bouquet, and whoever catches it is said to be the next one to marry.
- Rice Tossing As in many other regions of Italy, it is customary in Calabria to throw rice (sometimes flowers or petals) on the newlyweds at the end of the ceremony as a wish for fertility and prosperity.
- The Confetti Table At the end of the wedding, a “confetti table” is often organized, where confetti are offered, symbolizing sweetness and good fortune for the couple. The confetti can be decorated with local themes.
- The Role of the Family The family is at the heart of the celebration: relatives organize much of the festivities and ensure that traditions are respected. Both the bride’s and groom’s parents play an important role in organizing the wedding, as well as actively participating in the dances and celebrations.
In general, weddings in Calabria are moments of great joy and community, where local traditions blend with the enthusiasm and participation of everyone present.
