why do people put cans on wedding cars

[RyderFitz]

People tie cans to wedding cars primarily as a noisemaker tradition to loudly announce the newlyweds' departure and ward off evil spirits, a custom with roots in European folklore. Before modern alarms, the clamor of clanging cans served as a primitive but effective communal alert that a marriage procession was underway. The tradition has evolved into a fun, celebratory gesture symbolizing good luck.

The practice is believed to have originated from an old French custom called a charivari (or shivaree), a noisy mock serenade aimed at newlyweds. The racket was thought to scare away malicious spirits that might bring bad luck to the union. As European immigrants brought these superstitions to America, the tradition fused with the "Just Married" signage and evolved into the familiar car decoration we see today.

While the spiritual belief has faded for many, the core function remains: creating a public, joyful celebration. The sound is a form of auditory celebration, similar to ringing church bells. From a practical standpoint, it’s crucial to ensure the cans are tied securely but safely, using strong string or rope and keeping them clear of the exhaust pipe, tires, and brake lines to avoid a driving hazard.

Tradition/Origin	Cultural Significance	Modern Interpretation
French Charivari	Noisy mock serenade to ward off evil spirits from the newlyweds.	Fun, celebratory send-off for the couple.
Ancient "Scaring" Rituals	Loud noises were believed to frighten away malicious spirits and bring good fortune.	Symbolic gesture for good luck in the marriage.
Traveling Showmen (UK)	Announcing the arrival of a carnival or circus to a town with noise.	Publicly announcing the wedding celebration to the community.
Medieval "Footing" (England)	Guests would follow the couple home, creating a racket until given beer or food.	A playful, interactive element for wedding guests.
20th Century American Adaptation	Combined with tin cans, "Just Married" signs, and old shoes (symbolizing the transfer of authority).	A iconic, multimedia celebration of the couple's new journey.

[DeNatalie]

It’s basically a holdover from the old days, like a superstition for good luck. My grandparents always said the noise was supposed to scare off any bad vibes or evil spirits trying to mess with the happy couple. These days, it’s just a fun, loud way for everyone to join in and send them off. You hear that racket and you know a brand-new marriage is rolling down the street. It’s a tradition that’s more about the party than the ghosts now.

[LeBryce]

Beyond superstition, it's a practical custom from a time before social media invites. The clatter was an effective, low-tech way to alert the entire village that a wedding had taken place and the couple was departing. It was a community-wide announcement. Today, it physically involves the wedding party in the send-off. Tying the cans is a hands-on activity that creates a tangible connection to the celebration for friends and family before the couple drives away.