Junggesellenabschied

Such a long word for such a fun time. A 'Junggesellenabschied' (bachelor fairwell) and 'Junggesellinnenabschied' (bachelorette fairwell) meet in the pedestrian zone for one last hurrah with friends.

This is the perfect time of year to see these small gatherings, funny costumes, and a great example of a fun custom. One of the highlights typically includes a basket filled with random things that the bachelor or bachelorette work to sell to on lookers or bar patrons. The proceeds are used to buy the group drinks for evening.

Wedding gifts

Occasionally in Munich department stores there will be a table where the bride and groom will place gifts they'd like to receive for their guests to purchase, however gift registries are not very common. Cold hard cash seems to be the gift of choice and finding a creative way to present it is sure to win points. Some fold bills into origami shapes, forms, or characters, while others painstakingly freeze or incorporate coins into ice or gelatin.

Reception

Dancing is always an essential part of wedding celebrations - particularly dancing a Waltz. There are also a variety of speeches, skits, singing, and perhaps guest appearances. It seems Bavarians really let their hair down when it's time to celebrate a wedding. I've witnessed a magic show, slide shows, and even performances by people dressed up as Michael Jackson and Elvis.

Bouquet tosses are done, while garter tosses are not. Also, freezing the top layer of the wedding cake to eat on the first anniversary isn't typical.

Dessert buffets, balloon releases, late night currywurst, fireworks, and time capsules to open on the first anniversary seem to be the trends.

Wedding Attire

Carrying on with the wedding theme it can be difficult to know exactly what to wear. Some wedding parties opt for ultra traditional tracht of the finest quality, while others are comfortable celebrating in jeans, which don't seem festive enough for a wedding. It's also possible to be surprised with a change of clothes turning dinner into a black tie affair complete with tuxedos and cocktail dresses. The closer the proximity to a large city the more formal the celebrations tend to be, but it's always interesting to see the mix of attire.