Wedding Traditions in Corfu, Kefalonia, and Zakynthos
A wedding in Greece is not just a celebration—it’s a blend of history, culture, and heartfelt traditions. Each Greek island has its own unique customs that add charm and authenticity to the special day. Corfu, Kefalonia, and Zakynthos, with their rich heritage and strong local identities, offer a wedding experience filled with tradition, symbolism, and joy.
Corfu: A Wedding Steeped in Venetian Elegance
Corfu, with its Venetian influences, has a unique mix of Greek and Italian wedding traditions. One of the most cherished customs is the “kantádes”—serenades performed by local musicians on the eve of the wedding. The groom, accompanied by a group of singers and musicians, visits the bride’s house, singing romantic songs beneath her balcony, just like a scene from a fairytale.
On the wedding day, it is common for the couple to be escorted to the church by a procession of friends and family, with musicians playing joyful tunes along the way. Inside the church, the “stefana” (wedding crowns) play a vital role in the ceremony, symbolizing the union of two souls.
After the ceremony, Corfiot weddings are filled with music, dancing, and feasting. The traditional dance “syrto” is often performed, and the celebrations can last until dawn. A special treat at Corfu weddings is the “pasteli”, a sweet sesame and honey bar, given as a symbol of prosperity and happiness.
Kefalonia: A Celebration of Music and Family Unity
Kefalonia is famous for its lively spirit, and weddings on the island are a true reflection of its people’s warmth and hospitality. One of the most touching traditions is the blessing of the bridal bed, where family and friends gather to decorate the couple’s bed with flower petals, coins, and even a baby—symbolizing wishes for love, prosperity, and fertility.
Music is a fundamental part of Kefalonian weddings. The island has a strong tradition of “kantádes”, just like Corfu, where local choirs or musicians sing romantic folk songs throughout the celebration.
The wedding ceremony itself follows the Greek Orthodox rituals, with the couple walking around the altar three times, holding hands as a sign of their lifelong journey together.
A special highlight of Kefalonian weddings is the post-ceremony feast, featuring local delicacies such as “kreatopita” (meat pie), fresh seafood, and Robola wine, the island’s famous white wine.
The night continues with energetic dancing, including the traditional “Ballos”, a fun and flirtatious dance where the bride and groom take center stage.
Zakynthos: A Wedding Full of Symbolism and Joy
Zakynthos, known for its warm hospitality, has a deep-rooted tradition of family involvement in weddings. A key custom on the island is the bride’s dressing ceremony, where her closest female relatives and friends help her get ready while singing traditional wedding songs. The final touch is the placement of a gold coin in her shoe for good luck.
Before the ceremony, it is common for the groom to send the “proika” (dowry) to the bride’s home, a tradition that symbolizes the joining of two families. In the past, the dowry included handcrafted linens, embroidered tablecloths, and even livestock! Today, it’s more symbolic, but the exchange still represents the love and support of the families.
One of the most unique customs in Zakynthos is the wedding march through the village, where the bride and groom walk to the church, accompanied by musicians and villagers who throw rice and flowers for prosperity.
During the reception, guests are treated to local specialties like “mandolato” (nougat) and Zakynthian honey-based sweets. Dancing is a must, with the famous “tsakonikos” and “syrtos” leading the way. The party often ends with the breaking of plates, a joyful expression of happiness and good fortune.
A Wedding to Remember
Getting married in Corfu, Kefalonia, or Zakynthos is not just about choosing a beautiful location—it’s about experiencing a wedding filled with heartfelt traditions, lively celebrations, and cultural heritage.
Whether it’s the romantic serenades of Corfu, the musical spirit of Kefalonia, or the symbolic customs of Zakynthos, each island offers something truly special.
A wedding in the Ionian Islands is more than a ceremony—it’s a memory to cherish for a lifetime, a true celebration of love, family, and tradition.
The photos in this article are from the island of Corfu.
We would like to thank Studio 74 Thanasis Rapsomanikis for the beautiful photos.