Torn Between Traditions
- Emmeline Marshala
- Apr 14
- 3 min read
Popular Pittsburgh wedding traditions include an absolute favorite such as The Pittsburgh Cookie Table. Pittsbugh weddings also include some traditions that are slowly fading away such as unusual dances like The Pennsylvania Polka, The Chicken Dance, and The Bridal Dance. In a wedding world full of glam, glitz, and sophistcation, how do you decide which tradions to keep and which ones to dismiss?
Let's start with the Pittsburgh Cookie Table; a tradition that will most likely outlive them all!
In the last few years, the rest of the world, due to articles in national newspapers, has learned that many Pittsburgh weddings have cookie tables. The tradition is said to of came from the Italians and the Eastern Europeans who settled in Western Pennsylvania dating back to the 20th century. The idea of getting friends and family together to bake cookies to contribute to the wedding was simply a gesture of love and support. The cookie table is a much-loved addition to any nuptial and its popularity doesn’t seem to be fading even as the older generations pass on.
Yinzer Valley Farms features a 360° bar which is the ideal placement for your Pittsburgh Cookie Table. This gives your guests an opportunity to easily browse the sweet treats while showcasing your loved ones hard work. We focus on functionality and try to create a way for you and your guests to seamlessly mix and mingle throughout the day into the evening.
In addition to cookies, the Eastern Europeans also brought the polka to Pittsburgh. It simply isn’t a true Pittsburgh wedding without a Pennsylvania Polka or two. Just like all music, some people love polka and some people well, don't love it. Regardless, it's a popular tradition that will always be accepted and embraced especially in and around Pittsburgh.
Somewhere in the late 1970s or early 1980s, the “Chicken Dance” debuted at Pittsburgh weddings and has since become a staple. The “Chicken Dance,” it’s part polka, part “Hokey Pokey” and part Funky Chicken. Its popularity is probably due to the fact that it requires no rhythm or fancy foot skills on the part of the participants. Anyone from young to old can stand in a circle, flap their wings, clap their hands, and just have fun.
Last but not least, is another dance attributed to the Eastern Europeans: the bridal dance. What it entails is putting money into a bag, often a frilly or satin one, in exchange for a dance with the bride and an accompanying shot of whiskey. Some people adore this custom since it is a fun way to mingle with the bride on her busy day while giving the newlyweds a little extra cash for spending. Weddings have gotten much more elaborate and lavish since these traditons originated. Nevertheless, you may want to include at least one beloved Pittsburgh wedding tradition on your special day.
How to choose which tradtions to include? You know your guests better than anyone so, you can choose the traditions that will be accepted and cherished. Your wedding day is about you and your spouse, your exciting celebration, and just having fun and enjoying your company. We have seen all the traditions and we are here to help execute them and incorporate them into your special day.
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