Kıbrıs Gecesi / Cyprus Night

Like many other cultures in the world, the night before the wedding holds its own traditional ceremonies. Hollywood has changed Northern Cyprus in the same way that it has changed the cultural elements in many other parts of the world. These days, bachelor parties, specially for the men, can be seen similar to the Western countries in the new generations, such as going to strip clubs. However, the traditional version of these parties can still be seen widely in the country. The ceremonies include, damat tıraşı (shaving the groom), gelin kınası ve seremonisi (bridal henna and ceremony), yüz görümlüğü (money paid to see the women's face) and halk dansları gösterileri (traditional dance performances). The Turkish influence can be easily seen in these performances, but definitly the Cypriot touch exists in them. Brief description of these traditions are as follows;

damat tıraşı: This can be considered the Cypriot version of bachelor party, the grooms friends gather around and have him shaved and prepare him for the big day.

gelin kınası ve seremonisi: This part is for the bride (gelin) and the women accompanying her, which include family members and friends. Putting henna on the bride is actually a very common practice in most of the Middle Eastern cultures, as it used to be a traditional version of makeup and believed to bring good luck. 

yüz görümlüğü: After both bride and groom are ready, it is not that easy for the groom to get to see her :) He has to pay up! This again is a very common part of the ceremony in the region, mostly the groom and his close family, sometimes brides family in a few cultures as well, give the bride some money and gifts so that she would unveil. (This was the best video I could find online for it)

halk dansları gösterileri: Like many of the Cypriot programs, dancing is a big part of the ceremony. Different groups of boys and girls come to the center and dance the traditional dances. An example of which is attached bellow. 

Finally, there is delicious Cypriot food, which is a whole different story and I will talk about a few of the items soon. But for now, let's just get ready for the wedding ceremony. :D