The money dance, dollar dance, and apron dance are wedding customs in many cultures where guests give money to the newlyweds during the celebration. These traditions differ across cultures. Some guests pay to dance with the bride or groom for a short time, while others give cash gifts or attach money to the couple's clothing. These practices show guests' support for the marriage, help the couple begin their new life together, and represent hopes for the couple's future success and happiness.
Europe
The money dance may have begun in Poland around the start of the 20th century. This dance happens after the first dance, usually when guests have had the chance to drink some beverages. The best man, MC, or DJ announces the event. Typically, the best man starts dancing with the bride and places money on her wedding dress, into a special purse she carries, or into the pockets of an apron she wears for this dance. In a more modern version, bridesmaids and other women also join the dance.
At Ukrainian weddings, the bride’s father usually begins by placing money on her dress. He is followed by the best man and groomsmen, and then by other male guests. In another version, the bride’s veil is removed and given to the maid of honor, and an apron is placed on the bride. Money is then put into the apron during the dance.
In Balkan weddings (such as in Albania, Bosnia, Serbia, and others), close family members throw money at the couple while they dance.
At Hungarian weddings, the bride removes her shoes and places them in the center of the dance floor. The shoes are then passed among guests, and each person gives a small amount of money as a contribution.
Africa
In Nigeria, among the Yoruba people, a tradition called money spraying happens during weddings and other celebrations. Guests throw naira notes at celebrants as part of this custom. The practice began in the 1940s when families would secretly place money in a groom's pocket to help newlyweds with expenses.
During Nigeria's oil boom in the 1960s and 1970s, the tradition changed. People started publicly throwing crisp naira notes at dancing celebrants. This act showed wealth, importance, and kindness. The practice is connected to Yoruba culture's Owanbe (lavish parties) and Juju music traditions. At these events, guests give cash to musicians and praise singers as a form of appreciation.
At celebrations like a wedding's first dance, guests often toss money into the air, place it on a celebrant's forehead, or pin it to their clothing. Specific helpers collect the cash. The money helps pay for event costs or supports the couple's future plans. Although the tradition has cultural value, it has faced legal issues because of Nigerian laws against misuse of money. Authorities have taken action to address these problems.
North America
During the money dance, family members take turns dancing near the bride and groom and pinning money on their clothing. This allows the couple to spend time with each guest. After the money dance, the groom is teased by his friends, lifted into the air while covered with a veil, and given an apron and broom.
In the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico, the money dance tradition differs based on the region and the cultural background of the families involved. It usually includes guests giving small amounts of cash to the bride or pinning money to her dress or veil. Sometimes, guests line up to pay to kiss the bride, though this practice is not done as often now. In some cases, money is collected in an apron or pouch held by the maid of honor or another female relative. The best man may also give whiskey to participants before the dance begins.
Some people see this tradition as a way for the bride and groom to interact with their guests and offer them good wishes. Guests may dance with the couple for 30 to 60 seconds. Sometimes the couple keeps the money, while in other cases, it is saved for their first child.
The Philippines
In some Filipino weddings, there is a tradition called the money dance. Men stand in line in front of the bride. They attach money to her dress or veil and then dance with her. The same happens with the groom. Women stand in line in front of him and attach money to his clothes. The money attached to the couple's clothes symbolizes a wish for good luck. It also helps the couple financially as they start their new life together.