The Curious Tradition of Burying the Sausage: A Wedding Day Ritual for Good Weather

Introduction: What Does Burying a Sausage Have to Do With a Wedding?

Weddings are filled with traditions, some ancient and solemn, others quirky and regional. One such peculiar custom that has captured curiosity around the world is the tradition of burying the sausage before a wedding in hopes of securing good weather on the big day. While it might sound like something out of a folklore tale, this practice has real believers and surprising roots.

In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about this weather-controlling ritual: where it comes from, how it's done, and whether it actually works. You’ll also hear from couples who’ve tried it, expert insights, and cultural comparisons that shed light on similar traditions around the world.

The Origins of the Sausage Burying Tradition

A Weather Worry Turned Ritual

Most couples dream of a perfect, sun-soaked wedding day. This desire has led to a variety of rituals aimed at influencing the weather, and burying the sausage is one such act. The tradition is believed to have originated in German-speaking regions, particularly Austria and Bavaria, where sausages are a staple of cultural and religious events.

The Sausage as a Symbol

Sausages have long been symbols of prosperity, festivity, and fertility—three concepts closely tied to weddings. Over time, the act of burying a sausage became associated with warding off rain and inviting sunshine, turning a food item into a superstitious yet hopeful charm.

Global Parallels

Other countries also have rituals for good weather:

In Spain, brides might turn a statue of the Virgin Mary to face the sun.
In Japan, the Teru Teru Bōzou doll is hung to ward off rain.
In the U.S., couples sometimes bury a bottle of bourbon upside-down to keep the skies clear.

How Burying the Sausage Works

The Ritual Step-by-Step

Select the Sausage: Traditionally a bratwurst or a smoked sausage.
Choose a Burial Spot: Often near the ceremony venue, garden, or even at the altar location.
Timing Matters: Typically done one week before the wedding.
Ceremonial Vibes: Some couples involve the wedding party, creating a lighthearted mini-event.
Exhumation: After the wedding, the sausage is dug up, sometimes cooked and served at an after-party.

Who Does It?

While this is not a mainstream tradition, it is growing in popularity among couples looking to add unique flair to their wedding planning.

"We buried a sausage three days before our wedding, and guess what? Blue skies all day!" — Emily K., bride from Oregon

Real-Life Examples of Burying the Sausage

Case Study 1: A German-American Wedding in Wisconsin

Sarah and Markus, a German-American couple, honored Markus’s Bavarian roots by burying a bratwurst in his grandmother’s garden. Despite forecasts of thunderstorms, their wedding day turned out warm and sunny.

Case Study 2: A Destination Wedding in Ireland

Drenched in Irish charm (and potential rain), a couple from New York buried a sausage on the Cliffs of Moher property where their ceremony was to be held. While a light mist graced the morning, the ceremony itself was dry and bright.

The Psychology Behind the Ritual

Hope, Control, and Tradition

According to Dr. Elena Harford, a cultural anthropologist, “Burying the sausage is less about the actual outcome and more about giving couples a sense of control in an uncontrollable situation.”

Social Bonding

Rituals like these bring people together. It becomes a memorable event shared with friends and family and adds character to the pre-wedding festivities.

Pros and Cons of Burying the Sausage

Pros

Adds Fun and Whimsy: A great conversation starter.
Cultural Connection: Honoring heritage or starting a new tradition.
Hopeful Vibes: Encourages positivity leading up to the wedding.

Cons

No Scientific Proof: It’s a superstition, not a meteorological solution.
Logistical Challenges: Finding a burial spot at a venue can be tricky.
Might Not Fit All Weddings: Some might see it as too quirky or irrelevant.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Does burying the sausage really work?

There’s no scientific evidence, but many swear by it. At the very least, it’s a fun and symbolic ritual.

What kind of sausage should be used?

Traditionally, a bratwurst or smoked sausage is used, but there are no strict rules.

Is this tradition religious?

No, it’s more folkloric and cultural than religious.

Can vegetarians or vegans participate?

Absolutely! Some couples bury a plant-based sausage or symbolic object instead.

Conclusion: To Bury or Not to Bury?

In the grand mosaic of wedding traditions, the act of burying the sausage is a delightful blend of superstition, humor, and hope. While its effectiveness may be up for debate, its ability to bring joy and laughter to wedding preparations is undeniable.

Whether you’re deeply traditional, creatively modern, or just hoping for sun, this quirky custom might be the good-luck charm you need.

Ready to try it? Share your sausage stories in the comments below or tag us on social media with #BuryTheSausage!

Explore more fun wedding ideas:

10 Creative Outdoor Wedding Themes (dofollow)
How to Plan a Rain-Proof Wedding Day (dofollow)

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