Zola’s 2026 survey found 37% of couples hosting at least one additional event and 18% planning a full two- or three-day wedding weekend. Done well, a weekend gives you more time with the people who traveled.
The events
| Event | When | Tone |
|---|---|---|
| Welcome party | Night before or two | Casual drinks, snacks, name tags if families are meeting |
| Rehearsal dinner | Night before | Wedding party and family |
| After-party | After the reception | Late-night snacks, music, a relaxed bar |
| Farewell brunch | Morning after | Casual, drop-in, easy food |
A sample wedding weekend
| When | Event |
|---|---|
| Friday afternoon | Guests arrive; welcome bags at the hotel |
| Friday 5:00 | Rehearsal |
| Friday 7:00 | Welcome drinks for everyone |
| Saturday | The wedding and reception |
| Saturday late | After-party with late-night snacks |
| Sunday 10:00–12:00 | Drop-in farewell brunch |
Share the plan
Put a clear itinerary on the website: what, when, where, dress code and who’s invited. Put optional events in a separate section.
Keep it light
Food trucks, pizza, a picnic or a brewery can host a welcome party beautifully. Brunch can be a café with a reservation or bagels at a rental house. Delegate hosting to a family member where you can.
Welcome bags that are actually useful
Sources
General information, not legal, medical or financial advice. Confirm details with your vendors, venue, officiant and local authorities.
Questions people ask
Who is invited to a welcome party?
Often all out-of-town guests, or everyone. Make it clear on the website.
Is a day-after brunch necessary?
No — it’s a kind way to say goodbye, especially after a destination wedding.
Should we pay for guests’ activities on a wedding weekend?
It isn’t expected. If you suggest optional activities, say clearly that they are pay-your-own, and keep at least one free option.
