Marriage (People of the Sands)

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A marriage between two people are always cause for great celebration among The People. A large, colorful tent canopy is erected under which tables for the bridge, groom, and immediate families are set up, along with as many tables as possible in the immediate area, either under the canopy, if they will fit, or around it. A wedding ceremony is held at the city's temple, and vows are exchanged. After the ceremony, a 3 day feast ensues. While each day of the feast is generally free-formed, there are a few traditions observed on each day of the feast.

The First Day

Typically, the first day of the feast begins in the afternoon or evening, after the wedding ceremony has taken place. At some point during the first day of the feast, many family members often have fun making very public and pointed suggestions each of the wedded couple can best assure mutual enjoyment of the other, usually in jest or in an attempt to embarrass. Typically this escalates into descriptions of rather impossible feats of lovemaking that sends most attendees of the wedding party into fits of laughter.

The Second Day

The Second day of the feast usually entails rotating groups of musicians, and a great deal of dancing, drinking, and merriment. Throughout the day, attendees will bring small gifts to the newly wedded couple as a way of helping them start, or perhaps continue, their life together.

The Third Day

The finest foods and drinks are typically saved for the last day of the wedding feast. It is the responsibility of each family of the wedded couple to have plays performed that tell the story of the largest, most informative events in the lives of the wedded couple. Typically the families attempt to find the best bards and theatrical troupes to both create and perform these, should any be available, but if not, family members and attendees can participate. Such plays typically range from hilarity to sorrow.

Also during this time, it is tradition for the wedded couple to seek the advice of those they respect and admire on how to have a long, happy marriage. While most of the rest of the feast is light-hearted, this tradition is typically treated with a modicum of sincerity and seriousness. By the setting of the sun on the third day, the feast ends, the tables returned to the homes from which they came, and the tent is put away.