Chile Wedding Traditions & Ceremonies
A researched guide to 7 traditional wedding ceremonies from 6 cultural traditions in Chile.
Chilean Catholic
Wedding day
Catholic Wedding Mass(Misa de Matrimonio Católica)
A full Catholic mass conducted in a church, including readings, rituals, and communion, chosen by many couples due to Chile's predominantly Catholic population.
Key elements
- Readings from scripture, exchange of vows, blessing of rings, communion. Guests often stand for the entire service. No wedding rehearsals are common. Attire: Bride in white dress, groom in suit/tuxedo or huaso attire. Colors/Symbols: Traditional Catholic symbols, white for purity. Food/Music: Not part of the ceremony itself, but traditional church music may be present.
Chilean Catholic / General Chilean
Pre-wedding
Engagement Ring Exchange(Anillos de Compromiso)
Couples exchange rings upon engagement, wearing them on their right hand until marriage, then switching to the left hand after the wedding ceremony.
Key elements
- Engagement rings (often Moissanite mentioned in one source, but generally not specified), worn on right hand pre-wedding, left hand post-wedding.
Chilean Catholic / Hispanic Catholic
Wedding day
Wedding Coins(Las Arras Matrimoniales)
A tradition where 13 gold or silver coins are exchanged between the groom and bride, symbolizing their commitment to share all their worldly goods and support each other financially.
Key elements
- 13 coins (representing Jesus and the 12 apostles, or 12 months of the year plus one for generosity). The groom places them in the bride's hands, who then lets them drop. Symbolizes mutual support and shared wealth. Attire: Wedding attire. Colors/Symbols: Gold/silver coins.
Chilean Catholic / Latinx Culture
Wedding day
The Godparents(Los Padrinos)
Instead of a traditional wedding party (bridesmaids/groomsmen), couples choose padrinos (godparents) who act as special mentors and supporters in their married life.
Key elements
- Mentorship, guidance, support. Padrinos may sponsor elements of the wedding or stand with the couple at the altar. Attire: Formal, as guests.
General Chilean
Reception
Wedding Gifts(Regalos de Boda)
Traditionally, guests would give material goods, but modern practice increasingly favors cash contributions, often towards a honeymoon fund.
Key elements
- Material gifts or cash. Modern trend towards cash for honeymoon. No specific attire or food. Music: N/A.
Wedding Reception(Recepción de Boda)
A festive celebration following the ceremony, characterized by abundant food, drinks, music, and dancing, often lasting until the early morning hours.
Key elements
- Gourmet food (meats, seafood, pastelera, gratin potatoes), expansive dessert tables, open bar with cocktails (including pisco sour) and Chilean wines. Dancing is a highlight, often with traditional dance troops. Large guest counts (300-400) are common. Attire: Formal. Music: DJ, live band, traditional Chilean music.
General Chilean (Legally Required)
Pre-wedding
Civil Ceremony(Ceremonia Civil)
A mandatory legal ceremony conducted at a city hall equivalent, typically taking place one to six weeks before the religious or symbolic wedding.
Key elements
- Legal documentation, signing of marriage certificate. No specific attire or food mentioned for this ceremony itself.
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