Easter Sunday is the Christian celebration commemorating the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. It’s a time of joy, renewal and celebration for millions around the globe.
While the meaning of Easter Sunday is globally recognised, the morning festivities vary widely from country to country. From candlelit processions to breakfast feasts and playful customs, here’s a look at how different cultures welcome Easter morning in their own beautiful ways.
Philippines: ‘Salubong’ at Sunrise
In the Philippines, Easter morning begins with ‘Salubong’, a traditional pre-dawn Easter Sunday ritual that symbolises the meeting of the Risen Christ and His mother, Mary. Held before sunrise, this celebration often includes two processions – one led by men carrying a statue of Jesus, and the other by women with a statue of Mary. The two statues meet in a joyful ceremony with music, flowers and sometimes even fireworks, representing the triumph of life over death.
Poland: Święconka and Easter Breakfast
In Poland, families begin Easter Sunday with a breakfast feast fit for a king, but not before they’ve had their Easter baskets (święconka) blessed on Holy Saturday. These baskets are filled with symbolic foods – eggs, bread, salt, sausage and more. On Easter morning, the blessed items are shared at the table in a joyful family meal that emphasises gratitude and tradition.
Spain: Processions and Celebrations
While much of Spain is known for its elaborate Holy Week (Semana Santa) processions, Easter Sunday itself is a lighter, more festive day. In cities like Seville and Málaga, morning processions are still held, but the atmosphere shifts from sombre to celebratory. The faithful dress in bright colours, and music, dancing, and community gatherings fill the streets.
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United States: Sunrise Services and Easter Egg Hunts
In many parts of the US, Easter morning begins with chruch services, often held outdoors to symbolise the empty tomb at dawn. These services are popular among churches of various denominations, followed by families gathering for brunch and the beloved Easter egg hunt, where children race to hunt for chocolate Easter eggs and sweet treats hidden around the home or parks.
Greece: The Feast After the Fast
In Greece, Easter is the most important religious holiday of the year. After midnight mass on Holy Saturday night, celebrations continue into Easter morning with a traditional feast that breaks the 40-day Lenten fast. Lamb, tsoureki (sweet braided bread), and red-dyed eggs are enjoyed with family. Though much of the feasting happens late at night, the joyful spirit carries well into Easter morning.
Ethiopia: Fasika Morning Joy
For Ethiopian Orthodox Christians, Easter Sunday, or Fasika is observed according to the Eastern Orthodox calendar, and is the celebration of the end of a long fasting season. After a midnight church service, worshippers return home in the early hours to break their fast with injera, lamb dishes, and traditional drinks.
South Africa: A Blend of Faith and Festivity
In South Africa, Easter Sunday is a celebration of life over death and a renewed promise of hope, it’s also a time for family connection. Christians will start their day with a morning church service followed by family gatherings for a special Easter lunch, frequently featuring traditional favourites such as roast lamb, pickled fish (especially in Cape communities), and hot cross buns. For children, Easter egg hunts are a highlight, enjoyed in gardens or community spaces. With its blend of Christian reverence and vibrant cultural expression, Easter morning in South Africa is a joyful celebration of hope and unity.
From Christian ceremonies to festive meals and playful traditions with family and friends, Easter morning across the world is a mixing pot of faith, family, and cultural flavour. The heart of Easter is universal: A celebration of life, hope, and new beginnings. May your Easter be joyful and blessed.
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