The weekend schedule
You’re invited to every event, and everything takes place at Penha Longa Resort. Thursday is for arriving and Sunday for heading home; the celebrations are Friday and Saturday.
Exact times to follow.
ThursdayMay 13
Arrival Day
Fly in, find your room, and settle in. There’s no formal event, so arrive at your own pace after the long journey.
FridayMay 14
Morning
Haldi
The celebrations begin with the Haldi. A paste of turmeric, sandalwood and rose water is applied to the bride and groom by family and friends — a blessing for good fortune, and traditionally for a bit of a glow before the wedding day. Lunch follows.
Evening
Sangeet / Welcome Reception
Sangeet means music, and that’s the plan: a night of dancing and some of our favorite dishes to welcome everyone to Sintra.
SaturdayMay 15
Morning
Baraat & Hindu Ceremony
The morning opens with the baraat — a procession to the ceremony, accompanied by dhol drums and as much dancing as anyone can manage before noon.
The ceremony itself takes place under a mandap, a four-pillared canopy, around a small sacred fire called the havan. The couple make seven vows while circling the fire, each one a promise for the marriage.
Afternoon
Wedding Lunch
Lunch together after the ceremony, then the afternoon is yours to relax and enjoy the resort before the evening.
Evening
Catholic Ceremony at Igreja da Penha Longa
A Catholic ceremony in the sixteenth-century chapel, which stands on the old monastery estate, founded by monks in the 1300s and later a summer retreat for Portugal’s royal family.
Evening
Cocktail Hour
Raise a glass with us as the evening settles over the Sintra hills.
Evening
Reception
Our last night together: dinner, dancing and one final celebration with everyone we love.
SundayMay 16
Departures
Farewell breakfast for anyone staying on property. Late checkout where available.