A Traditional Zakynthian Wedding Celebration

A Traditional Zakynthian Wedding Celebration: Music, Dances, and Costumes

Zakynthos, one of the most enchanting islands in the Ionian Sea, is known not only for its stunning landscapes but also for its rich cultural traditions. Weddings on the island are grand events that reflect the deep-rooted customs of Zakynthian society, where family, food, and music play pivotal roles. Couples looking to celebrate their love in Zakynthos have the unique opportunity to incorporate traditional elements into their wedding that bring the island’s history and spirit to life.

A traditional Zakynthian wedding celebration offers a magical combination of live music, traditional dances, and authentic costumes, all of which embody the heart and soul of the island. By embracing these traditions, couples and their guests can experience an unforgettable wedding reception, where the beauty of Zakynthos shines through every element of the festivities.

The Role of Music: Mandolin and Guitar
In Zakynthos, music is a central part of any celebration, and weddings are no exception. The island’s musical heritage has been influenced by Venetian rule, and this is especially evident in the prominence of the mandolin and guitar in Zakynthian music. These instruments are integral to the kantades (traditional Ionian serenades) and arekia, which are sung in joyful gatherings, often about love and happiness.

For a traditional wedding in Zakynthos, live music featuring the mandolin and guitar can create an atmosphere filled with the romance and nostalgia of the island. The couple can choose to have local musicians perform, who are well-versed in the island’s traditional songs. The music would start with the kantades, serenades that are often sung to celebrate love. The melodious harmonies of the mandolin and guitar will set the perfect backdrop for the wedding reception, connecting the couple and their guests to the deep musical traditions of Zakynthos.

The live performance of arekia, another form of traditional song from the island, adds a joyful and celebratory mood. These songs are usually lively and upbeat, calling for communal participation. Guests are often encouraged to sing along, creating a warm and inclusive atmosphere where everyone feels part of the celebration. The songs will transport guests to the Zakynthos of past centuries, where such music would fill the streets during weddings and festivals.

Traditional Zakynthian Dances
No Zakynthian wedding is complete without the inclusion of traditional dances, which have been passed down through generations and remain a vital part of the island’s cultural identity. Dance plays a central role in bringing people together during celebrations, and at a wedding, it symbolizes the unity and harmony of the newlyweds and their families.

Two of the most iconic traditional dances of Zakynthos that are often performed at weddings are the syrtos and balos.

Syrtos
The syrtos is one of the most ancient and popular dances in Greece, and it holds a special place in Zakynthian weddings.
It is a group dance, where dancers hold hands and form a circle or a line. The steps are graceful and flowing, symbolizing unity and community, making it an ideal dance for a wedding reception. The slow, rhythmic movements allow for a feeling of connection between the dancers, creating a sense of togetherness that is perfectly suited to the occasion.

At the wedding, the syrtos would likely be one of the first dances performed after the formalities of the evening. As the mandolin and guitar play the familiar melody, the bride and groom, along with their families and guests, will join hands to perform the dance. The soft, elegant movements of the syrtos provide a serene start to the celebration, honoring tradition while bringing the couple closer to their roots.

Balos
The balos is another popular dance, often performed at weddings in Zakynthos.
It is a more playful and flirtatious dance compared to the syrtos, and it usually involves couples. The dance begins slowly, with the couple circling each other, but it gradually becomes faster and more spirited as the music builds. The balos symbolizes courtship and love, making it a fitting choice for the bride and groom to showcase their affection for each other in front of their guests.

As the night progresses and the celebration becomes more lively, the balos will add a sense of fun and excitement to the wedding. The guests will enjoy watching as the newlyweds take center stage, dancing in perfect harmony to the upbeat rhythms of the mandolin and guitar. Eventually, other couples will join in, turning the dance floor into a joyous scene of twirling skirts and laughter.

Traditional Zakynthian Costumes
A key element that adds to the authenticity and charm of a traditional Zakynthian wedding is the costumes. These vibrant, elaborate outfits not only reflect the history of the island but also add a unique visual element to the celebration.

The traditional Zakynthian costumes for women typically consist of long, flowing dresses made from luxurious fabrics like silk or velvet, adorned with intricate embroidery and lace. The dresses are often in deep, rich colors such as red, gold, or blue, and they are worn with a matching headscarf or veil. Gold jewelry is also a significant part of the costume, symbolizing wealth and prosperity.

For men, the traditional costume includes a foustanella (a pleated skirt worn by men in many parts of Greece) paired with a white shirt and a vest. The look is completed with a belt and often a hat that reflects the island’s Venetian influences. These costumes are a beautiful representation of Zakynthian culture, and they add a sense of occasion and importance to the wedding.

During the wedding celebration, the bride and groom can opt to wear traditional Zakynthian costumes, or they can invite performers and dancers dressed in these outfits to entertain the guests. The colorful costumes create a stunning visual contrast to the modern wedding attire, transporting everyone back in time to a Zakynthos of centuries past.

Bringing it All Together
A traditional Zakynthian wedding celebration is a magical fusion of music, dance, and visual splendor that immerses guests in the island’s rich heritage. By incorporating mandolin and guitar music, traditional dances, and authentic costumes, couples can create a wedding that not only celebrates their love but also honors the culture and traditions of Zakynthos.

As the night unfolds, the sounds of the kantades and arekia will fill the air, while the graceful movements of the syrtos and the lively energy of the balos bring the celebration to life. The vibrant costumes will add a sense of grandeur, creating a visual spectacle that complements the emotional significance of the day.

For couples seeking a wedding that is both deeply meaningful and unforgettable, a traditional Zakynthian celebration offers an experience like no other—one that connects the past with the present and celebrates love in its purest form.

The photos are from a wedding held at Palazzo di P, World 5th Venue & Villa Zakynthos

See the space HERE