Easter, also known as Resurrection Sunday, is a Christian holiday that celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. The holiday is usually observed on the first Sunday after the first full moon of the spring equinox. Easter traditions around the world vary, but one common element is the use of Easter eggs. In this article, we will explore some of the top Easter egg traditions from around the world.
- Pysanka Eggs in Ukraine Pysanka eggs are intricately decorated eggs that are a traditional Easter gift in Ukraine. These eggs are decorated with traditional Ukrainian folk designs, symbols, and colors that represent various meanings. The designs are drawn on the eggs with wax, which is melted off to reveal the vibrant colors underneath.
- Pace Egg Plays in England Pace Egg plays are a tradition in some parts of England, particularly in Lancashire and West Yorkshire. These plays are performed on Easter Monday and involve actors playing the roles of Saint George, the Turkish Knight, and other characters. The plays often involve mock battles and end with the Turkish Knight being defeated by Saint George.
- Egg Tapping in Germany Egg tapping, also known as egg knocking or egg jarping, is a tradition in Germany and other countries in Europe. The game involves tapping the pointed ends of two boiled eggs together, with the goal of cracking the opponent's egg without cracking your own. The winner is the person whose egg remains unbroken.
- Egg Rolling in the United States Egg rolling is a traditional Easter activity in the United States. The event takes place on the White House lawn and involves rolling colored eggs down a hill. The tradition dates back to the early 19th century and was originally held on the Capitol grounds. The event was moved to the White House by President Rutherford B. Hayes in 1878.
- Cascarones in Mexico Cascarones are decorated eggshells filled with confetti or small toys. These eggs are a popular Easter tradition in Mexico and are often used during the week-long celebration leading up to Easter Sunday. During this time, people smash the eggs over each other's heads, covering each other in confetti.
- Egg Dancing in Greece Egg dancing, also known as tsougrisma, is a traditional Greek Easter game. The game involves two people holding a red egg and tapping them together. The goal is to crack your opponent's egg without cracking your own. The person with the last uncracked egg is the winner.
- Egg Trees in Germany and Austria Egg trees, also known as Ostereierbaum, are a traditional Easter decoration in Germany and Austria. These trees are decorated with colorful Easter eggs and are often found in public places, such as town squares or parks. The tradition dates back to the 18th century and is still popular today.
- Easter Bunny in the United States The Easter Bunny is a popular Easter tradition in the United States. The Easter Bunny is a character similar to Santa Claus, who brings Easter eggs photos and candy to children on Easter Sunday. The tradition is believed to have originated in Germany and was brought to the United States by German immigrants.
- Egg Knocking in Scotland Egg knocking, or "clackin' the claes" as it's known in Scotland, is a popular Easter tradition. The game involves two people tapping their hard-boiled eggs together, with the aim of cracking their opponent's egg. The person with the uncracked egg at the end of the game is the winner.
- Cascaruda in Italy Cascaruda is a traditional Easter game played in some parts of Italy, particularly in the Piedmont region. The game involves two people holding a red egg each and tapping them together. The aim is to crack the opponent's egg, without cracking your own. The winner is the person with the uncracked egg at the end of the game.
- Egg Jousting in France Egg jousting, or "chasse aux oeufs" as it's known in France, is a popular Easter tradition. The game involves two people on horseback, each carrying a wooden lance with a pointed end. The aim is to knock the opponent's egg off their lance, without losing your own. The person with the unbroken egg at the end of the game is the winner.
- Egg Pocking in Bulgaria Egg pocking, or "toukachki" as it's known in Bulgaria, is a popular Easter tradition. The game involves two people tapping their hard-boiled eggs together, with the aim of cracking their opponent's egg. The person with the uncracked egg at the end of the game is the winner.
- Egg Painting in Poland Egg painting, or "pisanki" as it's known in Poland, is a traditional Easter activity. The eggs are decorated with intricate designs using melted wax and then dyed different colors. The designs often have symbolic meanings, such as fertility and new life.
- Egg Dressing in Russia Egg dressing, or "krashenki" as it's known in Russia, is a traditional Easter activity. The eggs are boiled and then decorated with bright colors and intricate designs. The eggs are then exchanged as gifts between friends and family members on Easter Sunday.