How long does a Portuguese wedding last?

A Portuguese wedding reception traditionally begins around 8pm and runs until 3am or 4am. Food is served in abundance all night, finishing with a warming bowl of caldo verde soup in the early hours to keep the dancing going.

What do guests wear to a Portuguese wedding?

Guests dress formally and elegantly. The one rule is to avoid white, which is reserved for the bride, and by older custom black, since black was historically the colour of the traditional bridal gown in northern Portugal.

Who pays for a Portuguese wedding?

Traditionally, outside the wealthiest families, the guests themselves help pay for the celebration. Much of this happens during the reception, through the money dance and the bride's shoe passed around to be filled with cash.

Who walks the bride down the aisle in Portugal?

The father traditionally walks the bride to the groom. In villages, the bride may begin on foot, walking to the church with her wedding party and guests following behind her.

What are the arras in a Portuguese wedding?

The arras are 13 coins the groom presents to the bride during the Catholic ceremony. Blessed by the priest, they symbolise his promise to provide for the family and the couple's vow to share everything they have.

Do Portuguese brides wear black?

Historically, yes. In regions such as Viana do Castelo, the traditional bride wore an intricately embroidered black gown, the noiva à lavradeira, layered with gold filigree jewellery. Most modern Portuguese brides now wear white.