Weddings are about love, yes—but they’re also about community, joy, and sometimes a little friendly competition. Across the globe, different cultures incorporate playful traditions and games that help break the ice, bond families, and celebrate the union of two people.

If you're planning a multicultural wedding—or just want to honour your heritage—these global wedding games offer meaningful (and often hilarious) ways to engage your guests.

Whether you’re hosting in Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, or anywhere in between, here are some internationally inspired wedding games to consider—plus how to adapt them for modern Canadian celebrations.

Related: Wedding Traditions from Around the World

1. Shoe Stealing (India & Pakistan)

In Hindu and Muslim South Asian weddings, the bride’s sisters or cousins steal the groom’s shoes during the ceremony and demand a ransom for their return.
Modern Twist: Turn it into a lively reception game. The groomsmen can “negotiate” for the shoes with candy, cash, or drinks. It’s fun, chaotic, and guaranteed to make guests laugh.

2. Log Sawing (Germany)

At traditional German weddings, the couple saws a log together to symbolize facing life’s challenges as a team.
Modern Twist: Use a decorative puzzle, giant cookie, or symbolic prop that’s easier to “saw” indoors. It makes for a great photo op and team-building moment.

3. Breaking the Bread (Ukraine & Eastern Europe)

In Ukrainian weddings, the couple shares a round loaf called korovai. Whoever takes the biggest bite (no hands!) is said to be the head of the household.
Modern Twist: Make it a friendly group challenge using cupcakes or mini loaves. Invite parents or other couples to join for fun and fairness.

4. The Money Dance (Philippines, Nigeria, Greece & more)

Guests pin money to the bride or groom while dancing—contributing to the couple’s future together.
Modern Twist: Offer digital and physical options. Pin cash, or scan a QR code that links to your honeymoon fund. Keeps older and younger guests included.

Hosting a modern reception? Browse our ideas for Wedding Table Games and Kissing Games to add extra flair.

5. Tea Ceremony Challenges (China)

In traditional Chinese tea ceremonies, the groom may be tested with games or questions before being allowed to serve tea to the bride’s family.
Modern Twist: Involve guests with trivia, mini challenges, or playful dares. A great way to keep this custom interactive while respecting tradition.

6. Tug of War (Korea, Parts of Africa)

Symbolic tug-of-wars represent the uniting of two families in some Korean and African traditions.
Modern Twist: Make it literal—with a fun game of bride’s side vs. groom’s side. Best played outside or in open reception spaces. For more outdoor fun, explore Essential Lawn Games for Your Outdoor Wedding.

7. Shoe Game (Western Tradition with Global Appeal)

This modern classic is beloved around the world. The couple sits back-to-back, each holding one of their own shoes and one of their partner’s. They’re asked fun or revealing questions—and raise the shoe of who they think fits the answer best.
Why It Works: It’s universal, light-hearted, and easy for everyone to enjoy. Add personalized questions based on your culture, family, or love story.

8. Guess the Dish (Middle Eastern & Mediterranean Weddings)

Food is central to many cultural celebrations. This game has guests (or the couple) blindfolded to guess traditional dishes by smell or taste.
Modern Twist: Perfect for cocktail hour or dessert. Offer cards describing the dish’s origins, ingredients, or meaning—great for cultural education and allergy awareness.