The Easter weekend is almost here and while many people will be enjoying chocolate eggs and egg hunts, some communities have unique traditions that are worth exploring. From the Philippines to Papua New Guinea, there are a variety of customs that celebrate Good Friday through Easter Monday in different ways.
In the Philippines, devout Christians reenact the crucifixion and flagellation of Christ, with some even being nailed to the cross. Other traditions include making a giant omelet in France, decorating trees with eggs in Germany, and hiding cigarettes in trees in Papua New Guinea.
Europe also has its own Easter traditions that are both playful and serious. In Germany, bonfires are lit on Good Friday as a symbol of renewal and rebirth. In Slovakia, women are playfully whipped with branches on Easter Sunday as part of a traditional celebration. Children in Sweden exchange drawings for treats on Easter Monday as a way to celebrate the end of Lent.
In Greece, clay pot hurling represents casting away evil spirits on Good Friday, while in Chios, homemade rockets are fired at churches on Easter Sunday as part of a local tradition. In Guatemala, intricate carpets made of sawdust and flowers line the streets for processions during Holy Week.
Overall, Easter is a Christian festival that commemorates the Resurrection of Jesus Christ on the third day after his Crucifixion. Different cultures and communities have their own unique ways of celebrating this important holiday, from reenacting historical events to engaging in playful traditions.
