Like most religious holidays, Easteris celebrated all over the world, and every culture has established its own traditions. Whether you’re traveling abroad this Easter, or keeping traditions alive at home, we hope you’ll enjoy reading about how other people around the world are spending the holiday.
France
In France, revelers give chocolate eggs to their friends and family members. Historically, French observers would celebrate when their fast had ended. Therefore, the time following the fast featured an abundance of eggs, which led to the egg giving tradition. When Louis XIV was the king of France, he gave gold gilded eggs to his servants. In addition, he filled the eggs with presents. Today, parents often scatter eggs around their children’s rooms.
Italy
When an Italian family celebrates the holiday, they typically exchange eggs. Sometimes, family members will include extra gifts inside of the egg. On Sunday, families eat a special breakfast that features eggs, salami and a holiday cheesecake along with an almond and candy-filled sweet cake. Italian families continue the celebration into Monday as many of them will enjoy an outdoor picnic.
The United States
In America, young children receive baskets filled with treats from the Easter Bunny. For some families, the bunny hides eggs that the children previously boiled and decorated in bright colors. He hides the eggs inside and outside the home. Frequently, churches and communities hold large egg hunts featuring plastic eggs filled with candy, coupons or prizes. In addition, American families may spend the holiday together while eating a festive meal.
Ireland
Irish families have observed the holiday’s traditions for many centuries. During the event, people fast and pray. On the Saturday before the holiday, the priest will bless and light a candle called the Paschal. Church attendees will then light smaller candles from the Paschal. When Sunday arrives, many Irish families eat a meal at home. A traditional holiday meal includes roasted lamb and leek soup. Celtic traditions include dancing and the herring funeral.
Poland
Poland’s celebrations include chilled foods because smoke is not allowed during the holiday. Therefore, they do not cook. Instead, Polish families eat cold meats like ham and sausages along with eggs and various desserts such as poppy seed cake, pound cake and yeast cake. The feast is also likely to feature a sugar-formed lamb in remembrance of Jesus Christ after his resurrection. Families share boiled eggs, which is a national ritual. In addition, Poland’s priests bless eggs that church attendees sprinkle with salt and pepper.
Consider incorporating a new tradition into your celebration this year! And whatever you end up doing, share it with us in the comments!
