How Easter is celebrated in different countries of the world: interesting traditions and differences

How Easter is celebrated in different countries of the world/Collage by Radio MAXIMUM

Easter is one of the biggest holidays for believers. And we will tell you how it is celebrated in different countries of the world. Find out what is common and what are the differences between the celebration of the Resurrection of the Cross.

In Ukraine, Easter will be celebrated this year at the beginning of May. And while we have time to prepare for it, we suggest you familiarize yourself with the traditions of celebrating the Resurrection of the Cross around the world. Find out on Radio MAXIMUM, how Easter is celebrated in the USA, Italy, Germany and other countries.

• When is Easter in Ukraine 2024
• Why Easter is not postponed
• Easter in Europe 2024
• Easter 2024 in the USA
• Easter in England 2024
• Easter in Poland 2024

< li>Easter in Germany 2024

• Easter in the Czech Republic 2024
• Easter in Italy 2024

When is Easter in Ukraine 2024

First of all note that Easter is the most important holiday for believers who practice Christianity. This year, Ukrainians will celebrate the Resurrection of the Cross in May. And we will tell you exactly when.

In 2024, Christians of the Eastern rite – in particular, Ukrainians – will celebrate Easter on May 5. But Christians of the Western rite will celebrate the Resurrection of the Cross on March 31. Therefore, this year the difference in the celebration of Easter will last more than a month.

Why Easter was not postponed

We note that Easter in 2024 will be celebrated in Ukraine in the usual style. Therefore, the transition of the OCU and UGCC to the New Julian calendar had no effect on the date change. The reason was that Catholics have a different way of calculating the date of the Bright Cross Resurrection.

That is, in 2024, Ukrainians will celebrate Easter separately from the Western holiday. This is due to the fact that Catholics and Orthodox Christians have a different Easter for calculating the date of the Resurrection of the Cross.

According to the Julian or New Julian calendar, Easter can fall in the period from April 4 to May 8. The Orthodox Church uses the date of the vernal equinox for calculation. And this means that the Orthodox Resurrection cannot come earlier than April 4.

Eggs are traditionally painted on Easter/Freepik photo

Easter in Europe 2024

The celebration of Easter in Europe is a bright tapestry of traditions that combines centuries-old customs, religious rites and cultural heritage. While each country and region of Europe has its own unique way of celebrating Easter, there are several common traditions that unite the continent during this joyous holiday season. We bring to your attention an overview of various traditions of celebrating Easter in Europe:

• Religious rites.Throughout Europe, Easter is primarily a Christian holiday commemorating the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Throughout Holy Week, which begins on Palm Sunday and ends on Easter Sunday, churches hold special services, processions and liturgies to commemorate the passion, death and resurrection of Jesus. These religious celebrations vary in style and tradition, reflecting the diversity of Christian denominations and cultural influences across Europe.
• Easter Eggs and Easter Eggs. Coloring eggs is a widespread Easter tradition in Europe, symbolizing new life and rebirth. Families and communities come together to paint, paint and decorate eggs using different techniques and patterns. Decorated eggs are displayed in homes, public spaces and on Easter trees, and are often exchanged as gifts or used in Easter egg hunts.
• Easter markets and festivals. In many European countries, a few weeks before Easter, colorful Easter markets and festivals appear in city squares and city centers. These markets sell traditional Easter decorations, handicrafts, food and treats. Visitors can enjoy live music, folk performances and festive events, creating a joyful atmosphere for locals and tourists alike.
• Traditional food. Easter is a time for feasting and luxury in Europe, and each country boasts its own culinary delicacies. Roast lamb, ham, and other meats are common main dishes, accompanied by side dishes such as potatoes, vegetables, and bread. For dessert, traditional Easter bread, paska and cakes are served, often decorated with painted eggs and symbolic motifs.
• Traditions of Easter Monday. Easter Monday, also known as “Smigus-Dingus”, “Wet Monday” or “Dingus Day” in various European countries, is marked by humorous customs and traditions. In some regions, people jokingly throw water over each other, symbolizing purification and renewal. Other customs include egg rolling, egg knocking, and various egg games and competitions.
• Spring Festivals. In addition to its religious significance, Easter in Europe is also a celebration of the arrival of spring. Many Easter traditions and customs have their roots in ancient pagan rituals and holidays that herald the awakening of nature and the end of winter. These spring celebrations include bonfires, processions, dances and other outdoor activities that symbolize fertility, growth and rejuvenation.

Overall, the celebration of Easter in Europe is a colorful mosaic of traditions that reflect the continent's rich cultural diversity, religious heritage and seasonal rhythms. Whether through solemn religious ceremonies, joyous festivities, or cherished family customs, Easter brings communities together to celebrate a spirit of renewal and new beginnings.

Easter 2024 in the US

Easter in the United States Matters a holiday celebrated by millions of people across the country, celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ according to the Christian faith. While the religious aspect remains central to many, Easter in the US has also become a cultural holiday, intertwined with various traditions and customs. Here is an overview of some of the most common traditions associated with Easter in the US:

• Easter Sunday. Easter Sunday, which falls on the first Sunday after the first full moon after the vernal equinox, is the most important day of Easter celebrations. Many Christians attend church services to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Churches often hold special services, including at dawn, to mark this event.
• Easter bunny. The Easter Bunny is a popular symbol of Easter in the US, especially among children. Similar to Santa Claus at Christmas, the Easter Bunny is believed to bring baskets filled with candy, chocolate, and sometimes toys to children on Easter morning. Families often participate in the tradition of decorating Easter baskets and hiding them for the children to find.
• Decorating eggs.Decorating Easter eggs is a cherished tradition in many American families. Families and friends get together to dye or paint eggs in different colors and patterns, often using kits or natural dyes. In addition to traditional hard-boiled eggs, plastic or chocolate eggs filled with goodies have become a popular alternative for Easter egg hunts.
• Easter Egg Hunts. Easter egg hunts are a fun pastime enjoyed by children and families across the country. Organized egg hunts take place in parks, community centers and even backyards where children search for hidden eggs filled with candy or small toys. Some communities also have larger egg hunts with entertainment and other festivities.
• Easter parades. In some parts of the US, Easter parades are held on Easter Sunday or the weekend leading up to it. Participants dress up in their best spring attire, including colorful dresses, suits and Easter hats. Parades often include floats, marching bands and displays of Easter decorations, which add to the festive atmosphere.
• Easter dishes. Easter Sunday is also an opportunity for families and friends to gather for a special meal. Traditional Easter meals vary from region to region, but often include roast lamb, ham, or other meat, along with side dishes such as potatoes, vegetables, and hot cross buns. Desserts such as carrot cake and other Easter treats are also enjoyed.

The Easter bunny is a constant symbol of the holiday in the USA/Freepik photo

< p>In general, Easter in the US is a time of joy, reflection and celebration, bringing communities and families together to honor religious traditions and enjoy the arrival of spring. Attending church services, participating in egg hunts or sharing meals with loved ones – Easter holds a special place in the hearts of many Americans.

Easter in England 2024

Easter in England is a time of religious observance, cultural traditions and the meeting of spring. At the heart of Easter in England are both Christian customs and ancient pagan rituals, as well as a combination of religious rites, festive events and traditional dishes. Here is an overview of some common traditions associated with Easter in England:

• Easter Sunday services. As in many other Christian-majority countries, Easter Sunday is celebrated with special church services across England. Christians gather to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ with prayers, hymns and sermons. In some churches, services are held at dawn, symbolizing the dawn of Easter morning.
• Easter eggs and Easter eggs. Decorating and exchanging Easter eggs is a favorite tradition in England. People decorate hard-boiled eggs with bright colors and patterns, often using dyes, paints and stickers. Also, a popular Easter Monday tradition is the egg roll, where decorated eggs are rolled down hills in parks or gardens, and the winner is the egg that rolls the farthest without breaking.
• Easter Hats. Easter hats are a charming tradition in England, especially among children. People, especially young people, create and wear elaborate hats decorated with flowers, ribbons, feathers and other decorations to celebrate the arrival of spring. Easter hat parades are sometimes organized in schools or communities, which demonstrate the creativity and skill of the participants.
• Easter hats with a hot cross. Hot cross buns are a staple Easter treat in England. These spicy, sweet buns are marked with a cross on top, symbolizing the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. They are traditionally eaten on Good Friday, and hot cross buns can be eaten throughout the Easter season and are often served toasted with butter.
• Symnel pie. Simnel is a rich marzipan-covered fruit cake that is traditionally baked and enjoyed at Easter in England. This indulgent dessert is often decorated with 11 marzipan balls representing the 12 apostles, excluding Judas Iscariot. Simnel is a delicious symbol of the Easter holidays, enjoyed by families during family gatherings.
• Morris dancing. In some parts of England, especially in rural communities, Morris dancing is performed during the Easter holidays. Morris dancers, decked out in colorful costumes and bells, perform traditional outdoor dances to welcome the arrival of spring. These lively performances are often accompanied by music and are an important part of the English folk tradition.

In general, Easter in England combines religious observances with age-old customs and symbols of renewal and rebirth. Attending church services, painting eggs, enjoying festive food or participating in community events – Easter is a time for reflection, celebration and anticipation of the warm days ahead.

Easter in Poland 2024

Easter, known in Polish as “Welkanoc”, is one of the most important holidays in Poland, deeply rooted in both Christian traditions and rich cultural customs. Easter in Poland is celebrated with fervor and joy, it is a time of religious rites, family gatherings and cherished rituals. We bring to your attention an overview of traditions related to the celebration of Easter in Poland:

• Preparation for fasting. The Easter season in Poland begins with Lent, a period of fasting, prayer and reflection that lasts 40 days before Easter Sunday. During Lent, many Polish Catholics abstain from meat on Fridays and participate in special religious services and religious services to prepare for Easter.
• Palm Sunday. The week leading up to Easter Sunday begins with Palm Sunday, known in Polish as “Niedziela Palmowa”. On this day, believers attend church services with intricately woven palm branches or decorated twigs, symbolizing the triumphal entry of Jesus into Jerusalem. Palm trees are consecrated during church ceremonies, and in some regions competitions are held for the most beautiful palm tree.
• Celebration of Holy Week.Holy Week, or “Wielki Tydzień” in Polish, is the solemn period leading up to Easter Sunday. Many Poles take part in religious processions, the Stations of the Cross and solemn liturgies dedicated to the passion and death of Jesus Christ.
• Easter Divine Service and Mass.The Easter vigil, known as “Wigilia Paschalna”, is the main event of Easter celebrations in Poland. Vigil takes place on the night of Holy Saturday and begins with the blessing of the fire and the Easter candle, symbolizing the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Believers gather in churches for a solemn liturgy, which ends with the joyful proclamation of Christ's resurrection at midnight. Services on Easter Sunday are also held with great solemnity and joy.
• Consecration of Easter baskets.On Holy Saturday, Polish families prepare “święcone” baskets filled with traditional Easter foods, including eggs, bread, ham, sausage, salt and horseradish. These baskets, symbolizing the abundance of God's blessings, are brought to the church to be blessed by the priest during a special ceremony known as “święcenie przykomów”.
• Easter breakfast. After returning from Easter The services of the family of God gather for a festive Easter breakfast known as “Święconka”. The consecrated products from the Easter baskets are shared and tasted together, often together with traditional dishes such as zhurek (sour rye soup), borscht, hard-boiled eggs, various types of bread and cakes.
• Tradition of Easter Monday. Easter Monday, known as “Śmigus-Dyngus” or “Wet Monday”, is marked by the humorous tradition of dousing with water and playful mischief. In some regions of Poland, especially in rural areas, people jokingly pour water on each other as a symbol of purification and renewal.

Goodies are traditionally prepared for Easter/Photo by freepik

In general, Easter in Poland is a time of deep spiritual significance, rich traditions and joyous celebrations that unite families and communities, to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ and welcome the arrival of spring.

Easter in Germany 2024

Easter, or “Ostern”, has great significance in Germany, combining centuries-old traditions with religious observances and the arrival of spring. German Easter traditions encompass a rich variety of customs, from solemn religious ceremonies to joyous celebrations. We bring to your attention an overview of the traditions associated with the celebration of Easter in Germany:

• Celebration of Holy Week. As in other predominantly Christian countries, Holy Week in Germany is a time of solemn celebrations leading up to Easter Sunday. Many Germans attend church services, participate in processions and engage in religious practices to commemorate the passion, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
• Easter markets.A few weeks before Easter, colorful markets known as “Ostermärkte” appear all over Germany. These markets feature a variety of stalls selling Easter decorations, handicrafts and traditional products such as “osterbrot” (paska), chocolate eggs and marzipan treats. Visitors can also enjoy entertainment, music and festive activities for all ages.
• Easter eggs. Egg decorating is a long-standing tradition in Germany, with intricate designs adorning both chicken and chocolate eggs. . Techniques such as painting, painting and waxing (“Wachsbossieren”) are used to create beautiful patterns and motifs. Decorated eggs are displayed in homes and public places as symbols of new life and rebirth.
• Easter trees. In many parts of Germany, especially in the north, it is a popular tradition to decorate “Ostereierbaum” or Easter trees. Branches or small trees are decorated with colorful eggs, ribbons and other decorations, creating a bright spectacle that decorates the streets and gardens during the Easter season.
• Easter bonfires.On Easter Saturday, communities in some regions of Germany, especially in the north and east, gather to light Easter bonfires (“Osterfeuer”). These large fires symbolize the victory of light over darkness and the arrival of spring. Families and friends gather around fires to chat, sing and enjoy traditional food and drink.
• Easter Sunday meal. Easter Sunday is a time when families get together and enjoy a festive meal with traditional dishes such as roast lamb, ham and “Osterzopf” (Easter braided bread). Easter desserts, including pasques, cakes and chocolate candies in the shape of eggs and bunnies, add a sweet touch to the celebration.
• Easter Monday traditions. Easter Monday, known as “Ostermontag”, is a public holiday in Germany and is often celebrated with outdoor activities and family outings. Some regions offer scavenger hunts and egg-rolling competitions for kids, while others can take part in hikes, picnics or local attractions.

In Germany, trees are traditionally decorated with Easter eggs/Photo by pvproduction

In general, Easter in Germany is a time of renewal, celebration and cherished traditions that honor both religious and cultural heritage. From solemn church services to colorful markets and fun gatherings, Easter brings communities together to celebrate spring and hope for new beginnings.

Easter in the Czech Republic 2024

Easter, known in Czech as ” Velikonoce” is a holiday in the Czech Republic, which is marked by a combination of religious customs, cultural traditions and joyous celebrations. Deeply rooted in both Christian symbolism and pagan rituals, Czech Easter traditions reflect a rich heritage and folklore. We offer you an overview of the traditions associated with the celebration of Easter in the Czech Republic:

• Holy Week celebration. Holy Week, or “Svatý tyden”, is a time of solemn reflection and religious rites preceding Easter Sunday. Many Czechs attend church services, participate in processions and engage in spiritual practices in memory of the suffering, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
• Easter markets and celebrations. A few weeks before Easter, lively markets known as “Easter Markets” (Velikonoční trhy) appear in the cities and towns of the Czech Republic. These markets sell traditional Easter decorations, handicrafts and culinary masterpieces such as “mazanets” (Easter sweet bread), painted eggs and handmade decorations. Visitors can also enjoy live music, folklore performances and festive events for all ages.
• Easter eggs and Easter egg making.Egg decorating is a beloved tradition in the Czech Republic, where families come together to create intricate patterns using various techniques such as painting, dyeing and wax coating (“krašanky”). Traditional motifs, including geometric patterns, floral designs and religious symbols, adorn both chicken and wooden eggs. Decorated eggs are displayed in homes, public places and on Easter trees as symbols of new life and fertility.
• Beating and watering. On Easter Monday, the Czechs follow the humorous tradition of “pomlazka” and “slehannja” (whipping and watering). Young people known as “pomlazkars” go around the houses armed with woven willow branches called “pomlazkas”. They lightly whip girls and women on the legs, which symbolizes health, vitality and fertility, while reading poems with wishes for good luck. Instead, women offer them colored eggs, sweets or a glass of alcohol. In some regions, a similar custom involves dousing girls with water, symbolizing purification and renewal.
• Easter dishes. Easter Sunday is a time when families get together and enjoy a festive meal with traditional Czech dishes. Roast lamb, ham and “jehněčí koleno” (roasted leg of lamb) are popular main dishes, accompanied by side dishes such as potato salad, dumplings and “jarní bramborová polévka” (spring potato soup). Desserts include sweet breads, cakes and pastries, often decorated with painted eggs and marzipan decorations.
• Easter Monday Walks. Easter Monday, known as “Velikonoční podelá”, is a public holiday in the Czech Republic and is often celebrated with outdoor activities and family outings. Many Czechs take advantage of this holiday to visit parks, forests or the countryside for picnics, hiking or cycling. Some may also attend cultural events, exhibitions or performances organized in cities.

In general, Easter in the Czech Republic is a time of joy, renewal and cherished traditions that honor both religious significance and cultural heritage. From solemn church services to bustling markets and humorous customs, Czech Easter celebrations bring communities together to celebrate the arrival of spring and the promise of new beginnings.

Easter Easter is a traditional attribute of the Resurrection/Photo pvproduction

Easter in Italy 2024

Easter, or “Pasca”, is an important holiday in Italy, which combines religious rites, cultural traditions and festive celebrations. As Italy is a predominantly Catholic country, Easter traditions are deeply rooted in religious rituals, but they also include regional customs and culinary masterpieces. Here is an overview of the traditions associated with the celebration of Easter in Italy:

• Celebration of Holy Week. Holy Week, or “Settimana Santa”, is a solemn period preceding Easter Sunday, marked by a series of religious rites and processions. Throughout Italy, special liturgies are held in churches, in particular, on Palm Sunday, on Maundy Thursday – in memory of the Last Supper, on Good Friday – processions depicting the Way of the Cross, and on Holy Saturday – the Easter Service of God.
• Liturgy on Easter Sunday. Easter Sunday is the culmination of Holy Week and is celebrated with great solemnity in churches throughout Italy. Masses are held in honor of the resurrection of Jesus Christ, and believers gather to sing hymns, pray and receive communion. Many churches also hold dawn services, especially in scenic locations such as hilltops or seaside villages.
• Easter food. Food plays a central role in the Italian celebration of Easter, and each region boasts its own culinary specialties. One of the most iconic Easter dishes is “La Colomba Pasquale”, a sweet bread in the shape of a dove filled with candied almonds, symbolizing peace and resurrection. Other traditional dishes include lamb, artichokes, frittata and various types of savory pies and pastries.
• Easter eggs and egg hunts.Egg decorating is a favorite Easter tradition in Italy, when families and communities come together to paint, paint and decorate eggs with bright colors and intricate patterns. Decorated eggs are often exchanged as gifts or used in Easter egg hunts, especially for children. Some regions also have unique Easter customs, such as games or egg-tapping contests.
• Proceeds and parades.All over Italy, especially in cities and towns with rich religious traditions, there are elaborate processions and parades during Holy Week and Easter Sunday. These processions often include participants dressed in historical costumes, with religious statues and symbols, accompanied by music, incense and ceremonial rituals. One of the most famous processions is the “Via Crucis” (Way of the Cross) in Rome, led by the Pope at the Colosseum on Good Friday.
• Paschetta. Easter Monday, or “Paschetta”, is a public holiday in Italy and is celebrated as a day of relaxation, outdoor walks and picnics with family and friends. Many Italians take advantage of this holiday to enjoy nature, go on an excursion or have a leisurely lunch outdoors. Some regions organize special events, festivals and markets dedicated to Paschetti.

In general, Easter in Italy is a time of spiritual renewal, social gatherings and culinary masterpieces that combine centuries-old traditions and modern customs. Religious rites, festive processions or shared meals – Easter unites Italians to celebrate faith, family and the joy of spring.