Traditional Ole Time Wedding Hits the Stage for Tobago Heritage Festival 2025

July 21, 2025 – The 2025 staging of the Moriah Ole Time Wedding took place on Saturday, July 19, as a beloved part of the annual Tobago Heritage Festival. This cherished cultural event drew hundreds of locals and visitors to the quiet village of Moriah to witness the captivating re-enactment of a traditional 19th-century Tobagonian wedding.

The event began at 10:00 a.m. at the historic Moriah Moravian Church, with the bride, groom, bridal party, and other characters meticulously dressed in full Victorian-style attire. From the elegant gowns and three-piece suits to wide-brimmed hats and gloves, the attention to historical detail was striking. Characters like the “massa,” “macco,” and the father-giver added theatrical flair, delivering dramatic speeches and humorous interactions that vividly brought the old-time ceremony to life.

A key highlight of the event was the ceremonial procession through the village, which culminated at the Moriah Recreation Ground. Along the way, the crowd was treated to vibrant traditional music featuring the tambrin and fiddle, with dancers performing classic folk moves such as the “Brush Back” and “Break Away.” Spectators eagerly joined in, creating an interactive and festive atmosphere that celebrated Tobago’s rich cultural heritage.