7 Easter Celebrations From Around the World That Differ From South Africa

When it comes to Easter, different countries have their own unique traditions and customs. In this article, I will take you on a journey to discover seven countries that celebrate Easter in ways that are distinct from South Africa.

1. Spain

In Spain, Easter is a grand affair filled with elaborate processions and pageantry. One of the most famous celebrations takes place in Seville, where participants dress in traditional robes and carry religious statues through the streets. The atmosphere is solemn yet awe-inspiring, as locals and tourists alike come together to witness this spectacular event.

2. Greece

Easter in Greece is a time of both solemnity and joy. The highlight of the celebrations is the midnight church service, during which the resurrection of Christ is announced. After the service, families gather to break their fast with a meal that often includes spit-roasted lamb and traditional sweets such as “tsoureki” – a braided sweet bread.

3. Mexico

In Mexico, Easter is a vibrant and colorful occasion. Streets are adorned with decorations, and people gather for processions and reenactments of the Passion of Christ. One unique tradition is the burning of “Judas” – effigies filled with fireworks that symbolize the triumph of good over evil.

4. Sweden

In Sweden, Easter is a time for outdoor activities and gatherings. Children dress up as “Easter witches” and go door-to-door, exchanging drawings and paintings for candy. Families also enjoy a smorgasbord-style feast, featuring dishes such as herring and cured salmon.

5. Italy

In Italy, Easter is a time for religious processions and feasting. One of the most famous celebrations is the “Scoppio del Carro” (Explosion of the Cart) in Florence, where a cart filled with fireworks is ignited to bring good luck for the harvest. Italians also indulge in traditional Easter treats like colomba (dove-shaped cake) and eggs filled with surprises.

6. Philippines

In the Philippines, Easter is marked by dramatic reenactments of the crucifixion of Christ. Devotees voluntarily undergo real crucifixions or flagellate themselves as acts of penance and devotion. The atmosphere is somber and solemn, reflecting the intense religious fervor of the Filipino people.

7. Australia

In Australia, Easter falls during the autumn season, making it a time for outdoor activities and family gatherings. Many Australians go camping or have barbecues in nature, enjoying the pleasant weather. The iconic Easter Bilby, a native marsupial, has also become a popular symbol of Easter in Australia, promoting conservation efforts for endangered wildlife.

These are just seven examples of how Easter is celebrated in different countries around the world. Each one has its own unique traditions and customs, adding to the rich tapestry of global Easter celebrations. So, whether you’re in South Africa or exploring a different corner of the globe, Easter is a time to embrace diversity and celebrate the joyous spirit of the season.

Did you know that choosing the right words can have a powerful impact on the way people respond to your message? It’s true! The words we use can either elevate our message or fall flat. That’s why it’s so important to understand the power of language and how to use it effectively.

When I think about the impact of words, I can’t help but wonder why some words have such a strong effect on us. For example, have you ever noticed how certain words can instantly grab your attention and make you feel a certain way? It’s fascinating to consider how something as simple as a word can make us feel happy, sad, excited, or even angry.

One of the key things to remember about words is that they hold meaning. Each word we choose has a specific definition and carries with it a certain weight. Understanding the meaning behind the words we use is crucial to effective communication. If we want to connect with others and convey our message clearly, we must choose our words carefully.

It’s also important to consider the context in which we use words. The same word can have different meanings depending on the situation. For example, the word “run” can mean going for a jog in one context, but it can also mean managing a business or organizing an event in another context.

So, if you want to make an impact with your words, here are a few tips to keep in mind. First, think about the message you want to convey and choose words that align with that message. Second, consider your audience and what they value. Use words that resonate with them and make them feel understood. And finally, be mindful of the tone and style of your words. Are you going for a more formal or informal approach? Adjust your words accordingly.

At the end of the day, words are powerful tools that can help us connect, inspire, and influence others. By choosing the right words and using them effectively, you can make a lasting impact on those around you. So, go ahead and take a moment to reflect on the words you use. Are they helping you convey your message? Are they resonating with your audience? By following these principles, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a master of words.

Ah, Easter! It’s that time of year when Christians reflect and indulge in chocolate, and us South Africans eagerly await the long weekend while dodging cars with Gauteng license plates in coastal towns.

But, no matter how you celebrate, Easter brings a sense of relief after a long first quarter. While South African families have their own unique traditions, let’s take a look at how other nations around the world observe this special holiday in their own unique, colorful, and maybe even weird ways.

1. Germany

As Easter approaches, countries around the world celebrate with unique traditions and customs. One such tradition is decorating trees with colorful Easter eggs, a practice known as the Ostereierbaum or Easter Egg Trees. This delightful custom can be found not only in Germany but also in Austria, Hungary, Poland, Ukraine, Moravia, and the Czech Republic.

2. Bermuda

Have you ever wondered how different cultures celebrate Easter around the world? Let me take you on a journey to three fascinating destinations where Easter traditions are full of vibrant colors, unique customs, and delicious treats.

Bermuda

Imagine walking along the sandy shores of Horseshoe Bay Beach in Bermuda on a warm Good Friday. The sky above you is alive with a breathtaking display of kites in a kaleidoscope of colors. This is the Bermuda Kite Festival, a cherished tradition that marks the ascent of Christ. It’s a sight that fills you with wonder and joy as you join Bermudians in this celebration. And when it comes to Easter feasting, don’t forget to try the mouthwatering fish cakes!

Spain

In Spain, Easter is an extraordinary time filled with passion, pageantry, and deep-rooted traditions. You can’t miss the Semana Santa processions that take place in cities across the country. These processions are a mix of solemnity and spectacle, with religious statues paraded through the streets accompanied by haunting music. It’s a time when the whole community comes together to honor the sacrifice of Christ and reflect on the meaning of Easter.

Greece

When it comes to Easter celebrations, Greece knows how to make it an unforgettable experience. One of the most striking traditions is the midnight church service, where the faithful gather outside the church holding candles. As the clock strikes midnight, the priest proclaims “Christos Anesti” (Christ is Risen) and the crowd responds with “Alithos Anesti” (Truly He is Risen). The darkness is suddenly illuminated by the glow of countless flames, creating a breathtaking sight that fills hearts with hope and renewal.

So, whether you find yourself in Bermuda, Spain, or Greece during Easter, you can immerse yourself in the beauty, wonder, and meaning of these unique traditions. It’s a reminder that no matter where we are in the world, Easter is a time to come together, celebrate, and reflect on the significance of this special season.

In Verges, we have a unique way of celebrating Easter called Holy Festival Week or Semana Santa. The most important day during this week is Maundy Thursday, which is dedicated to the commemoration of the Last Supper. On this day, we have a special festival called the ‘Dance of Death’ or Dansa de la Mort. During this festival, people dress up in bright skeleton costumes and perform dances while carrying clocks, scythes, and ashes.

4. Greece

Have you ever heard of Chios? It’s a picturesque island in Greece, known as the fifth-largest in the country. In one particular village called Vrontados, something extraordinary happens during Easter time. It’s a tradition unlike any other – the explosive rivalry between two churches, Agios Markos (Saint Mark) and Panagia Erethiani (Virgin Mary Erethiani Church). This thrilling event is called Rouketopolemos, a rocket war that ignites the night before Easter.

Let me set the scene for you. The village is buzzing with excitement as congregants gather for mass. To protect their homes, windows and doors are boarded up or covered in mesh. You can feel the anticipation in the air, as everyone awaits the sky to be filled with rockets.

Now, here’s the fascinating part: the rockets are all homemade! Participants compete to see how many hits their rockets make, or even better, which church bell they can impact first. It’s a high-stakes game with up to 60,000 rockets soaring through the sky.

This celebration is no joke. Over time, there has been resistance against these rocket wars. Some people question the safety and the potential danger they pose. But for the people of Vrontados, this tradition holds a special place in their hearts.

When it comes to Easter celebrations, the Ethiopian Orthodox Church does things a little differently. Unlike churches in the West, they celebrate Easter, or Fasika, one or two weeks later. And let me tell you, it’s a big deal for them. In fact, it’s even more important than Christmas!

Leading up to Easter, the devout followers of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church observe a 56-day fast. During this time, they stick to a mostly vegan diet, avoiding meat and dairy products. It’s a time of sacrifice and reflection.

But the wait is worth it. On Easter Sunday, families come together in their best white outfits to celebrate. And you better believe there’s a feast involved. They indulge in traditional dishes like doro wot, a spicy chicken stew, and injera, a delicious flat-bread. And of course, there’s honey wine to toast to the occasion.

The Ethiopian Orthodox Church knows how to celebrate Easter in style. Their unique traditions and mouthwatering food make it a truly special time of year.

6. Italy

In Florence, we have a fascinating tradition known as the ‘Explosion of the Cart’ or ‘Scoppio del Carro’. This is how we celebrate Easter Sunday. It all starts with a cart filled with colorful fireworks and pyrotechnics. This cart, pulled by oxen, makes its way through the city square. Alongside it, you’ll find a lively group of drummers and people dressed in elaborate historical costumes.

As the cart reaches the magnificent cathedral, something truly special happens. The Archbishop, standing before the awe-inspiring structure, lights a rocket shaped like a dove. This rocket represents the Holy Spirit, and it’s called the ‘Colombina’. With a flicker of flame, the Colombina takes off, gliding gracefully down a wire to the outside of the church. Then, with a resounding boom, it collides with the cart, igniting a breathtaking display of fireworks.

7. New York, USA

Hey there! Did you know that New York City has a super unique tradition on Easter Sunday? It’s called the Easter Parade, and it’s been happening since way back in the 1800s. So, here’s the deal: it all started with churches decorating their sanctuaries with beautiful Easter flowers. But over time, things got a bit more fancy. In the late 1800s, people started dressing up in super fashionable clothes and parading down the streets to check out the flowers in church.

And guess what? This tradition is still going strong today! Now, people of all ages wear these incredible Easter bonnets and walk in a big procession along Fifth Avenue, from 49th to 57th street in Manhattan. Trust me, you won’t want to miss seeing these eye-catching hats!

ALSO READ