Easter Celebrations Around Europe
Embrace the spirit of renewal and celebration as Easter comes in season.
Springtime is here, and Easter is just around the corner! All across Europe, people are getting ready to celebrate in their own special ways. Here are some of the cool traditions happening in different countries. You may even be inspired to join the festivities in Spring 2025!
Spain: Semana Santa in Seville and Malaga
In Seville, Spain, during Easter, the streets light up with parades and lively shows of faith. Known as Semana Santa, or Holy Week, is a deeply revered tradition where ornate floats bearing religious icons are paraded through the city, accompanied by the haunting melodies of saetas (religious songs). The atmosphere is both reverent and exciting, drawing in locals and tourists to experience this moving event together.
Easter in Malaga, Spain is also really interesting! It is an awe-inspiring blend of strong faith with exciting traditions. This vibrant city also comes alive during Semana Santa, as elaborate processions wind through its narrow streets, featuring majestic floats adorned with intricate sculptures depicting scenes from the Passion of Christ. Each brotherhood, or cofradía, meticulously plans its route, with participants clad in traditional robes and pointed hoods, creating a mesmerizing sight. The air is filled with the haunting melodies of saetas (religious songs) and the aroma of incense. Families and tourists alike gather to watch these processions, sharing in the solemnity and greatness of the occasion.
Italy: Pasqua in Rome
Italy celebrates Easter, known as Pasqua, in Rome, with a blend of ancient rituals and modern festivities. The highlight of Pasqua is the grand Mass led by the Pope in St. Peter's Square, drawing pilgrims from all corners of the world. After the religious ceremonies, families gather for a delicious feast, enjoying classic dishes such as lamb, artichokes, and Colomba di Pasqua, a special dove-shaped cake representing peace and new beginnings.
Greece: Midnight Service in Athens
Called Pascha, Easter in Greece is a joyful event filled with ancient traditions. The most exciting part is the midnight Anastasi service, where people gather outside churches to get the Holy Light, symbolizing Jesus rising from the dead. As the flame spreads from candle to candle, it brings hope and happiness, lighting up the darkness and welcoming Easter with open arms.
Sweden: Påsk in Stockholm
In the peaceful setting of Stockholm, Sweden, Easter brings together nature's beauty and beloved family customs. Known as Påsk, it's a time when birch twigs are adorned with bright feathers and decorations, symbolizing the start of spring. Families come together for special meals, enjoying traditional treats like pickled herring, Jansson's Temptation (a tasty potato and anchovy dish), and Påskbord, a lavish Easter feast filled with a variety of seasonal delights.
Germany: Osterbrunnen in Bavaria
Easter is honored with the delightful custom of Osterbrunnen, or Easter fountains. Locals decorate their village wells and fountains with beautiful arrangements of hand-painted eggs, flowers, and greenery, turning these simple water sources into stunning displays of springtime beauty. The Osterbrunnen draws visitors from near and far, who are captivated by the skill and creativity shown, and enjoy the joyful atmosphere of togetherness and community spirit.
United Kingdom: Easter Egg Hunts
United Kingdom is all about fun traditions through egg hunting! Families excitedly search parks, gardens, and estates for hidden chocolate treats, while children giggle with joy at each discovery. Whether in grand estates or quaint village spots, Easter egg hunts bring communities together for a happy adventure, creating special memories that will be treasured forever.
Happy Easter — from For The Story Vacations!
Easter and Spring break is one of the best times to have a family trip to Europe. Schedule a call with me to start planning your adventure! I can't wait to hear about your ideas and put together an incredible trip that you will cherish forever.
xx Rachael