The Atmosphere of the Celebration

1. Preparations: • Preparations begin days in advance. The space is beautifully decorated with lights, flowers, and traditional ornaments. • Guests are welcomed with special Palestinian sweets such as ma’amoul, dates, and Arabic coffee. 2. Traditional Dress: • The bride wears a traditional Palestinian embroidered dress, often in vibrant red with golden threads. • Female guests also wear embroidered dresses or traditional attire that reflects the rich regional diversity of Palestine. 3. Zaffeh and Dabkeh: • The night kicks off with the Zaffeh, a joyful entrance of the bride with music and ululations (zaghareet) from the women. • This is followed by Dabkeh, a lively traditional group dance performed to folkloric Palestinian music.

The Henna Ritual:

• At the highlight of the evening, a decorated tray filled with henna is brought out, adorned with flowers and candles. • The bride’s hands (and sometimes feet) are decorated with henna in beautiful designs. • Traditional songs are sung during the ritual, such as: "I dyed my hands with henna and my heart is full of joy, tonight is a celebration like no other..." • Many female guests also apply a small amount of henna for good luck and blessings.

Music and Songs:

• The party is filled with traditional Palestinian music, celebrating the bride and her family. • Popular songs include: o "Ya Zein Ya Abu El-Litham" o "3alli El-Koufiya" o "Tonight is our joyful night"

Food and Hospitality:

• Traditional Palestinian dishes are served, such as: o Mansaf, Maqluba, or Mujaddara, depending on the region. o Desserts like Harissa and Knafeh are also offered to guests.

The Symbolism of Henna

Henna is more than just decoration—it is a celebration of femininity, heritage, and family bonds. The henna night brings together generations—grandmothers, mothers, and daughters—in a space filled with joy, music, and memory-making.