61 Best Last Dance Wedding Songs

So, your wedding reception has run its course, and it's time to bid the night farewell with one last dance. It truly was a beautiful celebration, and while you don't want the enchanting hours to ever end, you have no choice but to send your guests off with something to remember.

To help you make the right choice, here are the best last-dance wedding songs you'll surely fall in love with.

“(I've Had) The Time of My Life” by Bill Medley, Jennifer Warnes

Song Year: 1987

Originally from the hit film Dirty Dancing, the classic still holds up to this day. It's one of the most fitting tracks to have at the end of your reception, both lyrically and in tempo. After all, the song was made for dancing (it's even in the movie title), and there's just something about the alternating duet of a male and female singer that creates a faithful bond within the words.

“Lady in Red” by Chris DeBurgh

Song Year: 1986

Slow, memorable, and intimate; when “Lady in Red” comes on, it whisks you and your partner away to the clouds for a special dance in the heavens. This is a song for the hopeless romantics and dreamers who have found their lovers and wish to share their world with them.

“Angeleyes” by Abba

Song Year: 1979

Somewhat blurring the lines between slow and upbeat, Angeleyes is an excellent choice for the last song at your wedding. At one point, it became an anthem for nostalgia and remembrance on social media, and while the trend has since passed, this iconic song still remains a staple to all those good times in our hearts.

“Marry Me” by Jason Derulo

Song Year: 2013

“Marry Me” describes everything to look forward to with marriage in a hopeful symphony of piano accompaniments, synthesizers, steady drum beats, and the luscious voice of Jason Derulo. It's incredibly cheery and exactly the kind of song that you want to leave you, your spouse, and your guests off with.

“Come and Get Your Love” by Redbone

Song Year: 1974

This song sounds like it belongs at the end of a rom-com, where all the problems are resolved, and everyone gets a happy ending. Well, technically, it is in Guardians of the Galaxy, which was somewhat responsible for the song's revival, but that's beside the point. It's still a sensational hit to end your reception with a bang.

“Take on Me” A-ha

Song Year: 1985

Is this song a bit cheesy? Perhaps. Is it still an amazing song? Definitely.

“Take on Me” is both fun and memorable. You can dance to it or deafen the room with a horrible cacophony of party-goers attempting to hit those iconic high notes (and failing). It's a song everyone knows and one that will undoubtedly light up the room after a night of drinks, cake, and banter.

“Marry You” by Bruno Mars

Song Year: 2010

Yet another contemporary song about marriage, Bruno Mars's “Marry You,” is an uplifting, upbeat track that's simultaneously playful and meaningful. Whether you choose this song for Mars' silky smooth singing or for the church bells ringing in the background, you won't regret ending your reception with this entry.

“September” by Earth, Wind, and Fire

Song Year: 1978

Do you remember this old track? Of course, you do. Who could forget?

There are a lot of good songs for dancing on this list, and yet none come close to the king of funky disco that'll have everyone up and moving for one final hurrah. Really though, do we need to say any more about this quintessential classic?

“Can't Help Falling in Love” by Elvis Presley

Song Year: 1961

Sometimes all you need is a simple slow dance accompanied by the passionate serenation of the king of rock n' roll. “Can't Help Falling in Love” is an immortal ballet you should play at the end of your wedding reception to signify a long, fruitful marriage as you stare into your lover's soul with a dreamy gaze.

“Don't Stop Believing” by Journey

Song Year: 1981

Why stop with the classics? They're classics for a reason, and everyone knows them, so there's no reason NOT to end your wedding with them.

“Don't Stop Believing” is one of those songs that inspires good feelings and makes you want to “hold on to that feeling” forever. It has one of the greatest progressions in music of all time and has a universally recognizable bridge beloved by everyone.

“Last Dance” by Donna Summer

Song Year: 1978

“Last Dance” is the ultimate funk jam you can expend to blast everyone's expectations away for a fun last dance. It starts off slow and romantic but quickly progresses into a fast-paced disco track you can tap your toes to and shake your body all around the hall.

“Shut Up and Dance” by WALK THE MOON

Song Year: 2014

This one's tune is undeniably uplifting and excellent for maintaining high energy until the very end of the night. “Shut up and Dance” just makes everyone feel good for a while and will motivate everyone to stop talking, rise from their seats, and start dancing like there's no tomorrow.

“A Thousand Miles” by Vanessa Carlton

Song Year: 2002

Have you ever been in a car with this song on full volume with a group of friends singing like there's no tomorrow? Well, what if you could transfer that incredible atmosphere onto your wedding day? Actually, you can!

As soon as this tune comes on at the end of the night, everyone knows you mean business and won't hesitate to invigorate the room with good times and blessings.

“Hey Ya!” by Outkast

Song Year: 2003

In all honesty, this one doesn't have anything to do with marriage or love, but it's still a phenomenal entry to send guests away with. In addition to being one of the most elevating, happy songs out there, “Hey Ya!” will leave everyone with a satisfying taste in their mouth as they clap their hands and spread along the dancefloor to the mesmerizing tune.

“Stay With Me” by Miki Matsubara

Song Year: 1980

While the song is predominately in Japanese, some of the most memorable lyrics are in English, and it has gained quite a large following in western media in recent years. If this is your type of music, then “Stay With Me” is a profound, beautiful piece to play at your wedding.

“Shook Me All Night Long” by AC/DC

Song Year: 1980

So maybe classic rock n' roll is your thing, in which case “Shook Me All Night Long” is probably the song you're looking for. It's an anthem for the old-fashioned rockers and full of memorable guitar riffs sure to create good vibes and high energy all around.

“Here's to Us” by Halestorm

Song Year: 2012

This song's a bit jaded lyrically, but there's something motivating about the message of celebrating all the mistakes you've made in the past as part of your life. It's not for everyone, but it'll move those who do relate to it much more deeply.

“All I Want To Do Is Make Love To You” by Heart

Song Year: 1990

There will never be another band like Heart, so there's no reason not to use the genuine article. This track specifically is full of romantic phrases and alluring instrumentals, two aspects that'll comprise the ideal last dance when it's finally time to wrap things up.

“Closer” by The Chainsmokers ft. Halsey

Song Year: 2016

“Closer” is the definition of pleasant beats and chill vibes. It's a song about intimacy captured in a modern style and has seen a vast amount of popularity throughout the years. Whether you choose it to be your first, intermissionary, or final song, you won't regret adding it to your playlist.

“Hey Soul Sister” by Train

Song Year: 2009

Take your friends, family, and lover back to a much less complicated time with this song, before the internet ruled the world and when everyone was just a little bit younger. It holds a special place in the hearts of many and is truly romantic when it comes to carefully crafted lyrics and ukulele accompaniment.

“Sugar We're Goin' Down Swinging” by Fall Out Boy

Song Year: 2005

This one's for the punk rockers and ex-emo kids of the world; this is your anthem, and while the older generations at your wedding won't think much of it, it probably means a lot to you. It's your special night, so you're free to rock out as you did two decades ago.

“I'm Yours” by Jason Mraz

Song Year: 2008

“I'm Yours” captures the little things in love. It's a little less about getting everyone up and moving and more about getting your party-goers to find their special someone and hold them close while swaying back and forth.

“My Way” by Frank Sinatra

Song Year: 1969

The long, belting vibrato of Frank Sinatra's “My Way” can confoundingly end any event with splendor and breathtaking awe. Truly one of the greats when it comes to the music industry, this song is perfect for bringing your wedding to a staggering close and leaving your guests with an unforgettable experience.

“Thinking Out Loud” by Ed Sheeran

Song Year: 2014

If you listen closely to the lyrics, you'll find that “Thinking Out Loud” encapsulates all the love and joy you've experienced thus far in your relationship and beautifully describes what the future will hold. It's perfect for slow dancing and is a charming tune to end the night with.

“Perfect” by Ed Sheeran

Song Year: 2017

Wait, two Ed Sheeran songs in a row? Really?

Yes, really. As it just so happens, Ed Sheeran is great at making last-dance wedding songs, and while we'll limit this list to only two entries by him, just know there are many more. “Perfect” is here for the same reasons as the previous entry, and which one you choose is really just a matter of preference.

“Lava” by Disney Music

Song Year: 2015

If you and your spouse are hardcore Disney fans, you probably already know this song. It's a cute and romantic duet that narrates the beauty of blossoming love through a soothing Hawaiian-style melody.

“Can You Feel The Love Tonight” by Elton John

Song Year: 1994

Speaking of Disney, “Can You Feel The Love Tonight” is another enchanting last song to play at the end of your reception. It has calming undertones and is reminiscent of the early days of your relationship when everything was exciting and new.

“Stand By Me” by Ben E. King

Song Year: 1962

Tis an oldie, but a good one. If you're going for a more relaxed atmosphere at the end of the night, then this vintage track is for you. Just crank the radio down low and get lovey-dovey with your forever person.

“Hallelujah” by Leonard Cohen

Song Year: 1984

There are many renditions of “Hallelujah” to choose from, but we're going with the original singer, Leonard Cohen. His deep voice just claims our hearts with grace and elegance as he peacefully sings one of the most covered songs of all time.

“Seasons of Love” by Jonathon Larson (Rent)

Song Year: 1994

If you and your special somebody love broadway musicals, then why not have your last dance be to “Seasons of Love” from the hit musical Rent? If you're familiar with the play, then you probably know how fitting it is. Plus, it's just overall an excellent song.

“Ain't No Mountain High Enough” by Marvine Gaye

Song Year: 1970

What better way to finalize the evening than with the soul-infused track known as “Ain't No Mountain High Enough”? Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrel bring all the energy you and your guests need to get groovin' as you laugh and dance your special night away.

“500 Miles” by The Proclaimers

Song Year: 1987

Who said you couldn't get a little goofy with your last song? “500 Miles” is just fun. Yeah, it's not super romantic, nor is it profound lyrically, but it does create some of the best times you'll ever have. If you want people to just let loose and be themselves before they leave, be sure to send them away with this wacky tune.

“Sweet Caroline” by Neil Diamond

Song Year: 1969

If your goal is to get the reception room as loud as you possibly can before the end of the night, then all you need to do is put this song on. It'll have everyone wrapping their arms around each other and drunkenly swaying back and forth while shouting “BA BA BA” at the top of their lungs.

“Until I Found You” by Stephen Sanchez

Song Year: 2022

Let's get back to those sedating, romantic songs that'll incline you to grab your love by the waist and begin to slow-dance. “Until I Found You” is a recently released song, yet it captures that old-fashioned jingle marvelously and is quite the spectacular final song.

“I Wanna Dance With Somebody” by Whitney Houston

Song Year: 1987

For Whitney Houston songs, it was between this one and “Will Always Love You.” We chose “I Wanna Dance With Somebody” because it just seems like a more fitting way to end the night than the latter, which is a better in-between song.

“We Are Young” by Fun

Song Year: 2012

It's a song about cherishing the current feelings and living in the moment. Sure, there have been ups and downs in your relationship, but this song lets you know that you can leave those regrets behind and move forward with enthusiasm and youth.

“I Want it That Way” by Backstreet Boys

Song Year: 1999

Get your perfectly choreographed (or not-so-perfect) dancers into place as you get ready to reenact a movie-Esque scene featuring the Backstreet Boys. Love or hate this song; you've got to admit it leaves a pretty big impression.

“Somebody to Love” by Queen

Song Year: 1976

Every Queen song is iconic and widely known, so if you're a fan, you have a plethora of options to choose from. We recommended this one solely because of the lyrics, but in all honesty, any one of the band's songs will get your guests dancing and singing all the same.

“(Everything I Do) I Do It For You” by Bryan Adams

Song Year: 1991

This song is a low-toned, slow-paced rock romance that speaks volumes when it comes to love and dedication. Ideal for winding everyone down and preparing everyone for the end of the festivities, Adam's music is just a heartfelt way of letting your people know that you care.

“Accidentally In Love” by The Counting Crows

Song Year: 2004

Wait, isn't that the song from Shrek? Indeed it is, and why it's not for everyone. This entry is more for those who have a comical relationship with their spouse and for those who are together because of a series of mishaps.

“Life Is a Highway” by Rascal Flatts

Song Year: 2006

Even if you're not a fan of country, you still probably like this song. You can lament all the good times that have passed with this vibrant track that makes you want to clap your hands and move side-to-side.

“All of Me” by John Legend

Song Year: 2013

Most of the song is just a quaint pianic melody and a bewitching voice, yet it somehow draws you into a spiral of heat. Whether it's a memento to your lover, or you're giving your friends and family something to remember, you can't go wrong with “All of Me.”

“Memories” by Maroon 5

Song Year: 2021

Sometimes, it's just better to sit back and think about all the memories you've made over the years. There are good times, and there are bad times. This song is a toast to all the times you've spent with your lover and to all the wonderful years to come.

“Take My Breath Away” by Berlin

Song Year: 1986

The reception isn't complete without “Take My Breath Away,” and adding it at the end just makes it all the more magical. The song has a mysterious atmosphere to it, and yet somehow, it remains full of passion and love.

“Still Into You” by Paramore

Song Year: 2013

If you've had a long-lasting relationship and waited a long time to get married, then “Still Into You” is your anthem. The song tells how even though the feelings of love should have faded over the years, you're still just as in love as you were in the beginning.

“Chasing Cars” by Snow Patrol

Song Year: 2006

“Chasing Cars” is one of those songs treasured by couples who frequently share moments of intimacy. If you're one of those people, then you'll definitely want to finish up your wedding day with this song.

“Everybody Talks” by Neon Trees

Song Year: 2012

This is one of those happy-go-lucky songs that make everyone feel good for a while and brings a positive energy to the table. There's something sweet and lovable about it, and it certainly delivers when it's tasked with the final song of the evening.

“Always” by Blink-182

Song Year: 2003

Another one for the punk-rockers, “Always,” is one of the critically acclaimed songs by the genre-defining band, Blink-182. If you're fans of their work, then this is probably the song you'll want to go with for your final dance.

“Don't You” by Simple Minds

Song Year: 1979

“Don't You” was originally the ending soundtrack for the hit movie The Breakfast Club and has since become a widely popular song of remembrance. As you're preparing to head out, put this song on and throw your fist up in the air.

“Country Roads” by John Denver

Song Year: 1971

How could you go wrong with this classic folk song? The tone of the music is calm, yet there's something about it that'll inspire your friends and family to start singing their hearts out, all while laughing and smiling.

“Piano Man” by Billy Joel

Song Year: 1973

Alright, admittedly, the lyrics to “Piano Man” are a little bittersweet. Still, that doesn't take away from the fact that we all love the song to death, and similar to the last entry, it will have everyone singing like there's no tomorrow.

“A Thousand Years” by Christina Perri

Song Year: 2011

We've talked about “A Thousand Miles.” Now it's time for “A Thousand Years.” Unlike its counterpart, the mood is a bit more somber, yet it's still just as romantic. If you want something thematically similar to a “Thousand Miles” but at a slightly slower pace, here's the song for you.

“Sure as Hell” by Tonight Alive

Song Year: 2011

This song is a hidden gem you're sure to fall in love with if you enjoy rockin' guitar riffs and fast-paced melodies. It's another one of those songs that captures the bittersweet aspects of relationships and is for those who like more down-to-Earth music.

“Closing Time” by Semisonic

Song Year: 1998

If you'd like to let everyone know it's almost time to leave, then “Closing Time” is how you can do so through song. It's a bar classic, and while people love singing along to it, it's also a subtle way to kick everyone out.

“Love Story” by Taylor Swift

Song Year: 2008

Before Taylor Swift sang about breakups, she had a little-known (actually well-known) song called “Love Story.” It's a nice tune about forbidden love, and while your marriage probably isn't torn apart by family feuds, you and your spouse will have an amazing time dancing to this song.

“You're Still The One” by Shania Twain

Song Year: 1997

Remember all those people who doubted you and your spouse? Play this song just for them, as it tells the story of how two lovers made it against all odds. And even if you've had everyone's blessings from the get-go, it's still a nice addition to your wedding reception.

“Nada Es Como Tú” by Ricardo Arjona

Song Year: 2016

If you speak Spanish, then you'll appreciate the beautifully crafted lyrics of “Nada Es Como Tú.” In essence, it's a song about how even Earth's most precious wonders can't compare to one's lover.

“Come A Little Bit Closer” by Jay & The Americans

Song Year: 1964

It's an old-time dance song that may not appeal to everyone but certainly is enthusiastic for its age. Assuming you're one saying your goodbyes in black and white, oldies such as this one are the way to go!

“Can't Take My Eyes Off You” by Boys Town Gang

Song year: 1982

While Boys Town Gang isn't the original singer of the song, their rendition is much more funk-filled and dance-worthy than the original. It's upbeat and has a bridge that'll take over your feet and make them start to tap.

“Like I'm Gonna Lose You” by Meghan Trainor ft. John Legend

Song Year: 2015

It's lovely and light. If you want to truly celebrate your love and end your night with an unforgettable dance sequence, this song's your calling.

“I Run To You” by Lady Antebellum

Song Year: 2008

For the final entry on this list, we end off with “I Run To You” by the illustrious Lady A. In addition to being a widespread success loved by countless, you'll find that the song has the ability to create a serene, mystical atmosphere when your wedding reception is in its final stages.

Top Last Dance Wedding Songs, Final Thoughts

Your last dance wedding song should have a much more profound meaning than the rest of your playlist, and as such, you should spend some extra time picking out the perfect one.

Hopefully, this list has inspired you with some of the best tracks out there, and you have all the resources you need to make a decision.