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VIP December 2021

Do we play Hava Nagila / do the Hora? (jewish)

mrswinteriscoming, on June 19, 2020 at 5:48 PM Posted in Wedding Reception 0 9

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My family are culturally Jewish (they’re the most secular people I know so the religious front isn’t strong at all) but my FH and I are atheists. In saying this, I love some of the Jewish wedding traditions such as having the hora kickstart a wedding - I think it’s such a great way to get everyone in a dancing mood.
Given we won’t be having any other Jewish elements at our wedding (no chuppah or breaking glass) I wonder if it will be out of place by starting our reception with the hora? I just can’t think of any alternative to really get people up and dancing the same way the hora does. Hmmm.

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9 Comments

Latest activity by Elizabeth, on June 21, 2020 at 1:20 PM

Expert January 2021
Katie · on June 19, 2020 at 6:09 PM
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I have a very similar background and I think we’ll do it. It’s so fun, everyone always has a good time! All for it.
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VIP December 2021
mrswinteriscoming · on June 19, 2020 at 6:10 PM
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Have you found any good uptempo versions of hava nagila? My band can’t cover it if we do it but I haven’t been able to find a good English version that’s upbeat enough.
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Expert January 2021
Katie · on June 19, 2020 at 6:17 PM
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I wouldn’t personally do it in English, I would just play the original.
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VIP June 2019
Hanna · on June 19, 2020 at 6:47 PM
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I would do it! The Hora was one of my absolute favorite parts of my wedding. It got everyone up and moving all together and not to mention, made for some of the best photos. Any wedding band should be able to play it
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Champion June 2019
Gen · on June 19, 2020 at 8:06 PM
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DO IT! It was one of the most fun parts of our reception!
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Master May 2021
Cristy · on June 19, 2020 at 8:58 PM
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As a non-Jewish person, I can say that I've been a guest at a few Jewish weddings, and that part is SO MUCH FUN!!! Even if you don't really understand the religious significance, the music, and everyone gathered around in a circle just makes you want to get up and dance!!
I think it's a great idea!
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VIP February 2020
Julie · on June 19, 2020 at 10:38 PM
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Wait, every version of the Hava nagila is upbeat!

We had an arch, didn't break glass, did the Hora after the first dance and father daughter dance. I'm Jewish, he's an atheist but raised catholic. It was a fun time! We both freaked out on the chairs even though I'd done it before at my bat mitzvah
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Dedicated June 2016
Amazing · on June 19, 2020 at 11:03 PM
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Do it!!! It is fun, puts everyone in a good mood, and adds a historical family tradition in it. Plus all the older group in your family would appreciate how tradition isnt totally ignored.
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Super June 2021
Elizabeth · on June 21, 2020 at 1:20 PM
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I think this is a decision only you can make. If you love it, do it! This shouldn't be something people judge your religious commitment off of. It's your day and if it'll make you happy, do it!
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