Senegal is famous for teranga, its tradition of hospitality, and a Senegalese wedding shows it at full volume. There is a religious ceremony, a bride price, the bride’s move to her husband’s family home, and plenty of sabar drumming and dancing. Here is a guide to Senegalese wedding traditions, with a focus on Wolof customs common in Dakar.
The takk
For Muslim families, who make up most of Senegal’s population, the religious marriage is often called the takk. It takes place at a mosque or in a family home, usually in the presence of male relatives, an imam and witnesses. The marriage is agreed between the groom and the bride’s representatives, and the bride may not attend. Kola nuts and sweets are often shared among guests afterwards as a sign of blessing.
The bride price
The groom’s family gives a bride price to the bride’s family, which may include money, cloth, jewellery and household goods. As in other francophone countries, people often call it la dot. Negotiations are handled by family members, and amounts vary widely.
The bride’s arrival
An important moment is when the bride moves to her husband’s family home. She arrives with relatives and belongings, and is welcomed by her new family. Women from both sides may sing teasing songs, sometimes known as xaxar, poking fun at each family in good humour. Older women offer advice to the new wife.
Sabar and celebration
Sabar, the energetic drumming and dance tradition of the Wolof, is the heartbeat of many celebrations. Drummers play complex rhythms while women take turns dancing in quick, athletic bursts. At wedding parties, sabar can go on for hours, alongside mbalax music on the sound system.
Dress and food
Senegalese weddings are known for elegance. Women wear grand boubous in rich fabrics such as bazin, often with matching head wraps, and men wear grand boubous or kaftans. The feast may include thieboudienne, the national dish of fish and rice, yassa chicken and lamb, followed by sweets and drinks.
The civil marriage
A civil ceremony at the town hall records the marriage officially. Many couples hold it alongside the religious and family celebrations.
Planning to marry in the capital? See our guide to weddings in Dakar.
Senegalese wedding: common questions
What happens at a Senegalese wedding?
A Senegalese wedding often begins with a religious ceremony at the mosque, followed by celebrations with the families, music and dancing. Read about Senegal.
What is the takk?
The takk is the religious marriage, usually concluded at a mosque between the families.
Is a civil ceremony required in Senegal?
Couples can register their marriage at the town hall to make it legally recognised.
