7 Surprising Easter Traditions Around the World

With the onset of spring, the season of rebirth is here. With Easter just around the corner, we are here to shed light on this age-old Christian holiday that marks and commemorates the resurrection of Jesus Christ, who rose from the dead three days after he was crucified by the Romans. Easter is celebrated by observing a series of events - starting with Lent, which involves 40 days of fasting and prayer, followed by the much-awaited Holy Week, and ending with Easter. Leading up to Easter, the Holy Week starts with Palm Sunday, which celebrates Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem and ends with Easter Sunday. Signifying Jesus’ victory over sin and evil, Easter holds a special place in the hearts of many across the world. Thrilling egg hunts, exuberant parades, and, of course, everyone’s favourite Easter Bunny, who brings joy to innumerable children - shrouding the festival are traditions with which we are all accustomed. What about the not-so-known local traditions that are followed by believers spread across different parts of the globe? Let’s delve into 7 surprising Easter traditions that will leave you in awe in no time.

7 Local Easter Traditions Around the World

1. Red Easter Eggs

Did you know that for centuries now, Orthodox Christian communities have forgone the typical mix of colours for their Easter eggs? Instead, they go for bold red shades to paint eggs, symbolizing the blood of Christ and hailing his sacrifice for the redemption of humanity. A popular practice in Greece, people unleash their creativity and add intricate details to their one-of-a-kind Easter eggs. 

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2. Fireworks

In Florence, Italy, the Easter celebration entails the crowd-pleasing Scoppio del Carro, which literally translates to “Explosion of the Cart.” Dating back hundreds of years, this complex ritual is a sight to behold. An ornate cart is rigged with a bunch of fireworks and is placed in the square in front of the cathedral. After a litany of hymns is recited, the Archbishop lights a dove rocket on fire that then flies down a wire, reaching the cart parked outside, setting it ablaze.           

3. Judas Burning

Speaking of lively rituals that involve fire, Judas Burning is yet another widespread Easter tradition that is witnessed in Greece, Mexico, Spain, and some Latin American countries. To symbolize the defeat of evil and the triumph of good, effigies of Judas Iscariot are constructed from papier-mâché, cloth, and scraps. These statues are then dragged out to public places and burned. Music, dancing, and feasts are also important facets of this lesser-known Easter ritual.        

4. Crime Novels/Påskekrim

Perhaps a bizarre yet fascinating way to celebrate Easter comes from the Land of the Midnight Sun. That’s right - ditching a nice roasted lamb and chocolate eggs. Norwegians prefer indulging in something a bit more unusual, and what some might even call sinister. Although the tradition has nothing to do with Easter itself, the origins of this odd practice has an interesting past. Authors Nils Lie and Nordahl Grieg co-wrote a crime novel, and their publisher pulled off a publicity stunt that became the foundation of this nationwide obsession. He arranged to print the slogan, “Bergen train looted in the night.” This not only propelled the sale of the novel but also many people confused the stunt for a real event, and ever since, the craze for crime novels, movies, and series during Easter has been a favourite. 

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5. Chocolate Bilby

Practised throughout Australia, this fairly new Easter holiday tradition was adopted in the 1990s. A bilby is an endangered marsupial, and the start of this tradition was primarily to raise awareness and funds for the betterment of these adorable little creatures. A household favourite, Bilby-shaped chocolate bunnies are consumed by many across the country on Easter Sunday.                         

Check out our collection of colourful bowls to present your chocolate eggs and bunnies.

6. Water Splashing

Who doesn’t love a good water fight? But have you ever imagined it as part of the Easter tradition? Dating back to Pagan times, Hungarians celebrate Easter by playfully sprinkling water on each other. In some parts of Greece, pots and other earthenware filled with water are thrown from the balcony. Although some disciples associate water splashing with the Christian symbolism of cleansing and purification, others see it as a mere lighthearted ritual to celebrate the arrival of spring. 

7. Easter Bonnets

Easter in America is incomplete without donning a bonnet, which is a fancy schmancy hat that is a part of Sunday Church attire. These hats were at the height of their popularity in the 1990s and continue to be a quintessential Easter tradition. Kids also love crafting their own DIY hats for the holidays.            

Check out our scarves collection to find something to go with your Easter bonnet.

Conclusion

From snoshing on yummy chocolate bilbies to partaking in the frivolities of fun water splashing with friends, we bring to the forefront a list of offbeat Easter traditions that will surprise you. Although quirky and unconventional, each practice weaves a narrative of religious symbolism and the celebration of spring. 

If you are looking to spruce up your home decor for spring, explore our spring collection. Whether it is scented candles for a burst of fragrance, sleek photo frames, or ceramic vases to house the season’s blooms, we have it all.