Religious Observances: Churches, Processions, and Midnight Mass
Easter is the cornerstone of the Christian calendar in Europe, and religious observances lie at its heart. Many countries hold solemn Holy Week processions, such as Spain’s Semana Santa, where Catholic brotherhoods in distinctive cloaks and hoods carry ornate floats (pasos) depicting biblical scenes through city streets. Italy’s Scoppio del Carro ("Explosion of the Cart") in Florence features a 17th-century antique chariot packed with fireworks, ignited by a dove-shaped rocket to symbolize blessings for the city. In Greece (and other Eastern Orthodox nations), the Epitaphios procession carries a recreation of Christ’s tomb, decorated with flowers, through towns on Good Friday, followed by all-night vigils leading to Easter Sunday Mass. France and the UK often host large Easter Masses, with the Pope’s blessing from St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome drawing global pilgrims.
Symbolic Decorations and Games: Eggs, Bunnies, and Egg Hunts
Easter eggs, representing new life and resurrection, are a universal symbol. In the UK, children participate in egg rolling (rolling hard-boiled eggs down hills to symbolize the stone rolling away from Jesus’ tomb), while in Germany and Austria, the Easter Bunny (Osterhase) hides chocolate eggs and treats for kids to find—a tradition rooted in German folklore where the hare symbolized fertility. France embraces the "flying bells" (cloches volantes) myth: church bells stop ringing from Good Friday to Easter Sunday, said to fly to Rome for blessing, then return to drop eggs into gardens for children to collect. Egg decorating is also widespread: the UK and Poland favor intricate designs (like the Polish pisanki, using wax-resist techniques), while France and the UK enjoy simpler painted or chocolate eggs. Egg hunts are a favorite pastime in the UK, Ireland, and France, turning parks and gardens into treasure troves for kids.
Traditional Foods: Feasting and Regional Specialties
Easter meals are a time for indulgence, with each country boasting unique dishes. In Italy, Colomba (dove-shaped sweet bread) and Angelino (roasted baby lamb) symbolize peace and Christ’s sacrifice. Spain’s Torrijas—French toast soaked in milk, eggs, and sugar, then fried—are a popular Easter dessert, often enjoyed with coffee. Poland’s Easter table features Babka (a rich yeast cake with raisins) and Urek (sour rye soup), alongside roast lamb. The French indulge in Lamb of Easter (agneau de Paques), representing Christ as the "Lamb of God," and often serve it with spring vegetables. Hot cross buns, marked with a cross to symbolize the crucifixion, are a British staple, typically eaten toasted with butter. These dishes reflect regional ingredients and religious symbolism, bringing families together to celebrate.
Unique Cultural Traditions: Water Fights, Fireworks, and Crime Dramas
Beyond religion and food, Europe’s Easter traditions are full of quirky charm. Poland’s Wet Monday (?migus-dyngus) is a nationwide water fight, where people splash water on friends and neighbors—originally a pagan ritual to welcome spring, now a lighthearted way to celebrate. Italy’s Florence Scoppio del Carro combines history and pyrotechnics, with a massive cart carrying fireworks set alight to bless the city. In the Netherlands, Vastenavond (Fast Eve) marks the start of Lent with feasts and egg hunts, drawing tourists eager to join the festivities. Norway’s Easter tradition is surprisingly cozy: many retreat to mountain cabins for a five-day break, binge-watching crime dramas (Pskekrim) and reading murder mysteries—a blend of relaxation and intrigue. These traditions add a playful, communal touch to Easter celebrations.
