What is a Polterabend?
Polterabend is a unique German wedding tradition that serves as a fun and boisterous prelude to the big day. It’s a pre-wedding party where guests gather to smash porcelain and earthenware to wish the couple good fortune. The name itself, “Polterabend,” translates to “rumble evening,” perfectly capturing the noisy, spirited nature of the event.
What Happens at a Polterabend?
The core of the tradition is the breaking of pottery. Guests bring old plates, cups, and other porcelain items to a designated location, typically outside the bride’s or her parents’ home. The collective smashing creates a joyful chaos, with the shards scattering all over the ground.
The Deeper Meaning
More than just a party, the Polterabend is rich with symbolism:
- Good Luck: A German saying goes, “Scherben bringen Glück,” which means “broken pieces bring luck.” The act of breaking the pottery is a way to shower the couple with good wishes for their future.
- Warding Off Evil Spirits: The loud noise produced by the smashing is believed to scare away evil spirits and demons that might try to harm the marriage.
- Teamwork: After the smashing concludes, the bride and groom must work together to clean up the mess. This is considered their first act of teamwork as a couple, symbolizing their ability to face and overcome challenges together.
When and Where Does it Take Place?
Traditionally, the Polterabend is held the night before the wedding. However, it’s now more common for it to take place a few weeks in advance to ensure the couple and their guests aren’t too tired for the wedding ceremony. It’s an informal event, often open to anyone who wants to celebrate the couple, including friends, family, and neighbors who may not be invited to the official wedding.
Other Traditions
Depending on the region, other traditions may be included in the celebration:
- Burning the Groom’s Trousers: In some areas, the groom’s trousers are burned at midnight, and the ashes are buried with a bottle of schnapps. A year later, the couple digs it up to drink together.
- Nailing the Bride’s Shoes: To prevent the bride from “running away,” her shoes may be nailed to a tree.
Polterabend is a beautiful and memorable way to combine community celebration with a meaningful ritual, setting the stage for a happy and prosperous marriage.
