Easter Traditions Around the World – How Many Did You Know?

Easter is a time of celebration and renewal, and traditions vary widely from country to country, adding richness and diversity to this special holiday. While many spend the day in church commemorating Christian traditions and then with family – there are other traditions that many countries consider more normal for this day. Here are 15 unique Easter traditions from around the world that highlight the cultural significance and joyous spirit of Easter.

1. Germany – Easter Egg Trees: In Germany, it’s a tradition to decorate trees with colorful Easter eggs. These trees, known as “Ostereierbaum,” are a symbol of spring and new life.
2. Australia – Easter Bilby: In an effort to raise awareness about endangered native species, Australians have adopted the Easter Bilby as an alternative to the Easter Bunny. Chocolate bilbies are a common sight in Australian Easter celebrations.
3. Greece – Midnight Mass and Fireworks: In Greece, Easter celebrations begin with a midnight mass on Holy Saturday. After the mass, fireworks light up the sky to symbolize the resurrection of Christ.
4. Bermuda – Flying Kites: Bermudians celebrate Good Friday by flying kites, a tradition that dates back to the 19th century. The kites are said to symbolize Christ’s ascent to heaven.
5. Norway – Crime Fiction: In Norway, it’s a tradition to read crime fiction, known as “Easter Crime,” during the Easter holiday. This tradition dates back to the 1920s and is a popular pastime for many Norwegians.
6. Spain – Semana Santa: Spain is known for its elaborate Semana Santa (Holy Week) celebrations, which include processions, music, and religious rituals. Each region in Spain has its own unique way of celebrating Semana Santa.
7. Poland – Water Fights: In Poland, it’s a tradition to engage in water fights on Easter Monday. This tradition, known as “Śmigus-Dyngus,” is said to bring good luck for the coming year.
8. Italy – Scoppio del Carro: In Florence, Italy, Easter Sunday is marked by the “Scoppio del Carro” (Explosion of the Cart) festival. A cart filled with fireworks is lit on fire, symbolizing good harvest and prosperity.
9. Sweden – Easter Witches: In Sweden, children dress up as witches on Easter Sunday and go door to door, exchanging drawings and paintings for candy. This tradition is a blend of Easter and the Swedish folklore tradition of witches flying to Blåkulla for a sabbath.
10. Hungary – Sprinkling: In Hungary, it’s a tradition for boys to sprinkle girls with water or perfume on Easter Monday. This tradition is believed to bring health and beauty to the girls.
11. United States – White House Easter Egg Roll: A tradition since 1878, the White House Easter Egg Roll is a fun-filled event held on the White House lawn, where children roll Easter eggs with wooden spoons.
12. Finland – Bonfires: In Finland, Easter is celebrated with bonfires, which are lit to ward off witches and evil spirits. This tradition is known as “Virpominen.”
13. Mexico – Semana Santa Processions: In Mexico, Semana Santa (Holy Week) is marked by elaborate processions, reenactments of the Passion of Christ, and vibrant street decorations.
14. Ethiopia – Fasting and Feasting: In Ethiopia, Easter is preceded by a 55-day period of fasting, during which only one meal a day is consumed. Easter Sunday is celebrated with a feast of traditional dishes.
15. Philippines – Crucifixion Reenactments: In the Philippines, some devout Catholics reenact the crucifixion of Christ as a form of penance and devotion during Holy Week.

These diverse Easter traditions from around the world highlight the universal themes of renewal, rebirth, and the triumph of life over death that are central to the Easter holiday. Whether it’s decorating Easter eggs, flying kites, or engaging in religious rituals, these traditions bring people together in celebration and reflection, making Easter a truly special time of year. We hope you all have an amazing holiday today in whatever form you choose to celebrate.

Feature Photo From Deposit Photos