5. Throwing Broken Dishes at Weddings in Germany (Polterabend)
At German weddings, the Polterabend tradition calls for guests to smash porcelain dishes before the celebration. This noisy ritual is meant to sweep away bad luck and wish the couple happiness. For many outsiders, especially those from cultures where breaking dishes symbolizes misfortune, the event can seem chaotic or even alarming. However, in Germany, it’s a joyful, communal act believed to strengthen the marriage by starting fresh—together. Learn more from Deutsche Welle.
