Portuguese wedding in France: traditions, meal and party

The Portuguese community in France celebrates its weddings with an irrepressible sense of festivity: a ceremony often religious, a meal that stretches into the evening, and a dance floor that never empties. Whether you marry in France or “na terra”, in Portugal, here are the most common traditions and the organizational points to plan.

Before the wedding

Choosing the padrinhos

The padrinhos, often close couples, play a broader role than mere witnesses. They support the bride and groom during preparations, stand by them on the day, and sometimes contribute to certain expenses, such as the rings or the flowers. Choose them early: they are called on for several moments of the day.

France or Portugal?

Many Franco-Portuguese families hesitate between a wedding in France, where most friends live, and a wedding in Portugal, in the family’s region of origin, often in August. The second option requires organizing travel for guests, their accommodation and vendors from afar. Some couples do both: the civil ceremony and a party in France, then a ceremony in Portugal. Our article on welcoming guests coming from abroad gives the steps to follow in the other direction, for family coming to France.

The ceremony

The town hall, then the church

In France, the civil wedding at the town hall is mandatory and precedes any religious ceremony. A large number of couples of Portuguese origin then marry in the church, according to the Catholic rite: marriage preparation with the parish, choice of readings and songs, sometimes a bilingual mass. Contact the parish several months in advance, especially for a summer Saturday.

Leaving the church

Upon exit, guests throw rice or petals at the newlyweds, a symbol of prosperity. Check with the parish what is allowed on the church steps: some prefer petals, which are easier to clean up.

The meal: a central moment

A long and generous meal

The reception, traditionally called copo de água, is a true gastronomic marathon. It often starts with a generous cocktail of small bites, then follows several courses, punctuated with dances and speeches.

Must-have dishes

Depending on the family’s regions of origin, you will find:

• for bites: rissóis, croquetes, bolinhos de bacalhau, grilled chouriço;
• for starter: caldo verde, a cabbage and chouriço soup;
• for main dishes: cod (bacalhau) in all its forms, leitão, roasted suckling pig, a specialty of the Bairrada, arroz de pato, cabrito or vitela assada;
• for desserts: arroz doce, pão de ló, toucinho do céu, pastéis de nata, and of course the bolo da noiva, the bride’s cake.

On the wine side, vinho verde, reds from the Douro or Alentejo and port at dessert are classics. To find these flavors, compare Portuguese caterers: ask whether they prepare the leitão themselves and how many covers they can serve at once.

Service

With 200 to 400 guests, table service requires a large team and a well-equipped kitchen. Arrange an early meeting between the caterer and the venue, and set a precise schedule of service so the party doesn’t stop between courses.

Children and elders

A Portuguese wedding often brings together four generations. Plan a corner for children, with entertainment or a person to supervise them, and a simple menu served earlier. Seat elders away from the speakers, near the restrooms and the exit: they will stay longer at the celebration.

The party and the traditions

The couple’s dance

The opening of the dance by the newlyweds is a much-anticipated moment, often followed by a dance with parents and padrinhos. The DJ or band should know the repertoire: Portuguese popular music, festive songs the whole room can sing along to, kizomba, then French and international hits. Ask for a sample playlist and how they transition between atmospheres.

Selling the tie

In many families, the groom’s tie is cut into small pieces that friends “sell” to the guests; the money collected is given to the newlyweds. A similar game sometimes exists with a ribbon or one of the bride’s shoes. Appoint one or two friends to lead this moment with humor, without letting it drag on.

The rancho folclórico

Some families invite a rancho folclórico, a group of traditional dancers and singers in regional costumes. A few dances are enough to create a beautiful moment of cultural transmission, especially for guests discovering Portuguese culture.

The venue and the timeline

A large venue, a spacious dance floor, sufficient parking and a late end to the evening: the needs of a Portuguese wedding resemble those of any large wedding. Compare capacities and prices on our list of reception venues, and follow our method to find a 300-guest venue.

A typical timeline:

• 12 to 18 months before: date, parish, venue and caterer;
• 9 to 12 months before: photographer, videographer, DJ or band, choice of padrinhos;
• 6 months before: invitations, often bilingual, outfits, travel if part of the celebration takes place in Portugal;
• 1 month before: the day’s schedule, seating plan, organization of the tie sale.

To discover all the customs, consult our Portuguese wedding guide.

Frequently asked questions

Do you have to get married in a church for a Portuguese wedding?

No. Many couples do, but the religious ceremony remains a choice. In France, only the civil marriage has legal value.

What is the selling of the tie?

A game where friends cut up the groom’s tie and sell the pieces to the guests. The money raised is given to the newlyweds.

How many guests for a Portuguese wedding?

Often between 150 and 400 people, including extended family. The final number mainly depends on the two families.

Can a non-Portuguese caterer prepare the meal?

Yes, if they master the recipes; but a Portuguese caterer knows families’ expectations and the right ingredients. Request a tasting in both cases.