Travel + Stay Weekend Timeline Polish Wedding 101 FAQ Registry RSVP

Polish Wedding 101

Polish weddings, especially in rural areas, have historically been major cultural events, bringing together family, friends, and neighbours to celebrate one of life’s most important milestones. These weddings were long, lively affairs where community, connection, and shared joy were at the heart of every moment — and we hope to carry that spirit into our own celebration.

Champagne celebration illustration

Food, Toasts, and Vodka Etiquette

From the moment you arrive, you’ll notice the food, music, and energy. There will be multiple courses of delicious dishes, so pace yourself between meals, toasts, and dancing.

One of the most memorable traditions is the vodka toasts. Small shots are shared around the table to celebrate and get to know each other. Usually, one person at each table makes sure everyone’s glass is filled for the next round — you don’t pour your own, and you never drink alone. It’s all about cheering together, sharing a moment, and making new friends. Alongside this, you’ll hear Sto lat song, and the occasional cheeky “Gorzko! Gorzko!” (“Bitter, bitter! [we need some sweetness]), encouraging a kiss between the newlyweds.

Dancing Together

Dancing at a Polish wedding is high-energy and interactive. Guests often end up joining each other on the floor, learning a step or two along the way, and generally having fun together. Polish people are vigorous dancers, so be prepared for a lively, spirited atmosphere, and don’t be surprised if you meet a few new friends while dancing. If all goes well, we might even see the new day together, as our fantastic DJ is contracted until 4am — with the option to extend if the party calls for it ;)

Oczepiny: Midnight Fun

Around midnight, the celebration shifts into oczepiny. Historically, this marked the bride’s passage into married life with symbolic rituals and playful teasing. Today, it’s a fun, interactive part of the party, full of games, surprises, and laughter, giving everyone a chance to join in the festivities in a joyful, playful way.

A Celebration of All Our Cultures

While many Polish traditions will be woven throughout the weekend, we’re celebrating all cultures that are part of our heritage. We will communicate in both English and Polish, and we’ll make sure everyone knows what’s happening and how to join in.

Bring Your Energy

Bring your curiosity, laughter, and maybe some comfy shoes — you’re in for a joyful, immersive weekend full of food, music, dances, toasts, and unforgettable moments with friends and family from near and far.

Nat and Alex in front of brick building with arched doorways