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Four Easter Traditions Around the World
Every family has their customs and traditions about how they celebrate Easter. This also speaks to different destinations around the world. While the religious significance of Easter remains central, diverse cultures have added their unique flavours to this celebration.
Let's explore five interesting Easter traditions from different corners of the globe.
Semana Santa in Spain
Spain embraces the 'Holy Week' or 'Semana Santa' to observe and celebrate Easter. The streets come alive with processions and participants march through the streets carrying religious statues. Semana Santa is a deeply spiritual experience for both locals and visitors.
Påskkärringar in Sweden
In Sweden, Easter is celebrated with a charming tradition known as Påskkärringar, which translates to "Easter Witches." Children dress up as witches with broomsticks and painted faces and go door-to-door exchanging drawings and paintings for sweets. The tradition is said to have come from a legend that the Swedish witches went to Blåkulla before Easter – to party with the devil. To make sure the witches don't come back, Swedes burn big bonfires on Easter Sunday.
Egg rolling in the United States
Every year, children gather on the South Lawn at the White House to roll hard-boiled eggs down the hill. This cherished Easter tradition dates back to the early 19th century, symbolising the rolling away of the stone from Jesus' tomb. The child whose egg travels the furthest without breaking is declared the winner, adding a fun and competitive element to Easter celebrations.
Kite flying in Bermuda
Look up into the sky in Bermuda during Easter. It’s a colourful experience on Easter Monday… families gather at parks and beaches to fly kites of all shapes and sizes, symbolising Christ's ascension. The skies are adorned with vibrant kites, and competitions for the best-designed and highest-flying kites add an element of excitement to the festivities. This colourful and joyful tradition brings communities together, fostering a sense of unity and celebration.
Countries around the world celebrate Easter in diverse ways whilst its religious significance remains rooted. These four Easter traditions showcase the beauty of diversity, reminding us that the spirit of Easter can be celebrated in countless ways, each reflective of the rich fabric of human culture.
