Easter Traditions around the World

Easter is one of the most significant Christian holidays, celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ. While many associate Easter with egg hunts and chocolate bunnies, traditions vary widely across different cultures. Here’s a look at how Easter is celebrated around the world.

1. United States & United Kingdom – Easter Egg Hunts

In many Western countries, children participate in Easter egg hunts, where colorful eggs—often filled with candy—are hidden for them to find. The Easter Bunny, a popular symbol of the holiday, is said to deliver these treats.

2. Spain – Semana Santa (Holy Week)

Spain’s Easter celebrations are deeply religious, especially in cities like Seville and Málaga. Semana Santa (Holy Week) features grand processions with people dressed in traditional robes and carrying religious statues through the streets.

3. Italy – La Pasquetta (Little Easter)

In Italy, Easter Monday, known as La Pasquetta, is a day for picnics and family outings. Many Italians also enjoy traditional Easter foods like colomba di Pasqua, a dove-shaped cake.

4. Greece – Midnight Mass & Fireworks

Greek Orthodox Easter includes a midnight church service on Holy Saturday, followed by fireworks to celebrate Christ’s resurrection. Families break their Lenten fast with a feast featuring magiritsa soup and tsoureki (a sweet braided bread).

5. Sweden & Finland – Easter Witches

In Sweden and Finland, children dress up as Easter witches (påskkärringar), wearing colorful scarves and painting their faces. They go door-to-door exchanging drawings for candy, similar to Halloween traditions.

6. Poland – Śmigus-Dyngus (Wet Monday)

On Easter Monday, known as Śmigus-Dyngus, people in Poland playfully splash water on one another, a tradition with pagan and Christian origins symbolizing cleansing and renewal.

7. Bermuda – Kite Flying

Bermudians celebrate Good Friday by flying handmade kites, symbolizing Christ’s ascension. The islanders also enjoy hot cross buns and codfish cakes as part of the festivities.

From solemn religious observances to joyful community traditions, Easter is celebrated in many unique ways worldwide. These customs highlight both the spiritual significance and the cultural richness of the holiday.