Traditional Wedding Customs in Argentina
Argentine weddings beautifully blend European (mainly Italian and Spanish) influences with modern touches. Here’s an overview of the most common traditional customs:
1. Engagement (Compromiso)
The groom traditionally asks the bride’s father for permission (though this is becoming more symbolic).
An engagement ring is given, often with a simple party or dinner to announce the engagement.
2. Civil Ceremony (Casamiento Civil)
In Argentina, the civil wedding is legally required and usually happens first (often a few weeks or months before the religious one).
It is held at the Civil Registry (Registro Civil) and is relatively simple and formal.
3. Religious Ceremony
Most weddings are Catholic and take place in a church.
The bride usually wears a white wedding dress, and the groom wears a formal suit or tuxedo.
Traditional elements include:
The father walking the bride down the aisle.
Exchange of vows and rings.
Lighting of a unity candle (sometimes).
4. Key Symbolic Traditions
Rings: The wedding bands are often worn on the right hand (a tradition in many Latin American countries).
Lazo (Lasso): In some regions, a ribbon or rosary is placed around the couple’s hands or shoulders as a symbol of unity.
Arrastre de la Novia: Friends and family sometimes playfully “kidnap” the bride and groom for a short time during the reception (light-hearted fun).
5. The Reception (Fiesta)
Argentine wedding receptions are famously long and lively — often lasting until early morning.
Asado (Argentine barbecue) is very common for the meal.
Dance: The couple usually opens the dance floor with a tango or a waltz. Guests then dance all night (salsa, cumbia, and reggaeton are also popular).
Cotillón: Guests wear party hats, blow streamers, and enjoy small gifts or surprises.
Cake Cutting: The wedding cake is often multi-tiered and served late at night.
6. Other Notable Customs
Bombones: Small gift boxes of chocolates or sweets are sometimes given as favors.
Money Dance: In some families, guests pin money to the bride’s dress while dancing with her.
Throwing Rice or Petals: Guests throw rice or flower petals as the couple exits the church.
Modern Argentine weddings are becoming more personalized, with many couples adding unique elements like destination weddings in Patagonia or wine regions (Mendoza)