What is Easter all about?
Easter is a Christian festival that celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. It is observed on the first Sunday following the full moon after the vernal equinox, which usually falls between March 22 and April 25. Easter is the culmination of the Holy Week, which begins on Palm Sunday and ends on Easter Sunday.
Easter has its roots in the Jewish holiday of Passover, which commemorates the liberation of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. According to the Gospels, Jesus was crucified during the Passover festival, and his resurrection occurred three days later. The early Christians celebrated Easter as a commemoration of both Jesus’ death and resurrection. The key days are Good Friday and Easter Sunday.
Good Friday:
Good Friday is the Friday before Easter Sunday, and it commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. It is a day of mourning and reflection for Christians worldwide. It is believed that Jesus died on the cross to redeem the sins of humanity.
Easter Sunday:
Easter Sunday is the day when Christians celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ. According to the Gospels, after Jesus was crucified, he was buried in a tomb. On the third day, the tomb was found empty, and Jesus appeared to his followers, proving that he had risen from the dead.
What does Easter look like around the world?
Easter is celebrated in different ways around the world, with each country and culture adding their unique twist to the festivities. Here are examples of how a few different countries celebrate this holiday.
Canada:
In Canada, Easter is a time for family gatherings, church services, and Easter egg hunts. Many people decorate their homes with Easter-themed decorations and prepare special meals, such as ham or lamb. In some regions of Canada, the Easter Bunny is a popular symbol of the holiday, and children participate in Easter egg hunts.
Britain:
In Britain, Easter is celebrated with a variety of traditions, including Easter egg hunts, hot cross buns, and Morris dancing. Many people attend church services, and on Easter Sunday, it is traditional to eat a roast dinner with family and friends.
Brazil:
In Brazil, Easter is celebrated with a combination of Christian and pagan traditions. Many people attend church services, and children participate in Easter egg hunts. In some regions of Brazil, people make straw dolls that they dress up in colorful clothing to represent Judas Iscariot, the betrayer of Jesus.
Poland:
In Poland, Easter is celebrated with a tradition called Śmigus-dyngus, which involves throwing water on friends and family. It is believed that this tradition dates back to pagan times and is meant to symbolize cleansing and renewal.
Greece:
In Greece, Easter is the most important holiday of the year, and it is celebrated with a week-long series of events called Holy Week. On Easter Sunday, people roast lamb on a spit and share it with family and friends.
Overall, Easter is a significant holiday for Christians worldwide, and it commemorates the resurrection of Jesus Christ. It is celebrated in different ways around the world, with each country and culture adding their unique twist to the festivities. Whether it is with Easter egg hunts, hot cross buns, or solemn church services, the message of Easter remains the same: hope, renewal, and redemption.
If you have family in Britain and want to send them something special this easter, we have a wide range of gift options that will sure to bring a smile to their faces.