A typical celebration includes circle dancing where the bride and groom may be lifted above the circle. In Orthodox communities, where dancing with the opposite sex is prohibited for reasons of modesty, and hence there is a mechitzah, a special dance done where the dance partners will hold opposite ends of a scarf. If either the bride or groom is the last child of the family to be married, another special dance may be performed for the parents to celebrate their success in marrying off all of their children. The main focus of the dancing is to entertain and enhance the joy of the newlyweds, hence large circles are formed around the "king and queen," and different guests often perform in front of the seated couple. At the end of the Seudat Mitzvah (festive meal), "Birkat ha-Mazon" (Grace After Meals) is recited, and the Sheva Berachot (seven blessings) recited under the Chuppah are once again repeated.
While the bride and groom are alone together (usually eating, after having fasted all day) the guests sit down to eat a festive meal. The meal is preceded by ritual washing of the hands, and the blessing over bread. At this meal all guests participate in the Mitzvah of "L'Sameach Chatan v'Kallah," to celebrate in joy with the groom and bride. Although the wedding feast in itself is a mitzvah, the emphasis is on entertaining the newlyweds. At some point, the band announces the arrival "for the very first time, Mr. and Mrs. _____!!!" and everyone joins in dancing around the bride and groom.
