In Germany, Easter is associated with bunnies, brightly painted eggs and the search for the Easter nest. But all over the world there are the most diverse Easter customs and traditions to celebrate Easter. The originally religious festival has been reinterpreted over the decades by many countries and celebrated with different customs. Want to learn more about Easter in other places around the world? Then this article is just right for you, here you will learn about the most bizarre and fun Easter customs of different countries.
Water battle in Poland
In Poland, Easter is celebrated in a wet and merry way with a water fight on Easter Monday. On the so-called "Śmigus Dyngus" (Wet Monday), people parade through the streets armed with water bombs, water guns and buckets, splashing each other. If you're not a fan of involuntary spring showers, it's best to stay home. However, most people don't mind the cool wet, as it is said to bring good luck for the coming season. This makes Wet Monday one of the funniest Easter traditions in the world.
Halloween in Scandinavia
In Sweden and Finland, people celebrate Halloween as early as spring. Dressed as witches, children go from door to door on the Thursday before Easter, hunting for treats. The tradition comes from the legend that Scandinavian witches flew to Blocksberg before Easter to have a feast with the devil. To prevent the witches from returning, numerous bonfires are lit on Easter Sunday to scare them away.
Easter traditions in the Czech Republic and Slovakia
Instead of being doused with water, in the Czech Republic and Slovakia at Easter flogged. If you're a woman, it's best to stay home on Easter Monday, because all the local men will be wandering the streets with colorfully decorated willow rods, looking for girls they can "easily" whip. But don't worry, the little blow with the willow rod is not particularly painful and is also supposed to bring health and beauty.
Red Easter in Greece
In Greece, the Easter bunny only sees red. Colorfully decorated eggs are typical for Easter. In Greece, however, you will only find red eggs in your basket. Here, Easter has a very religious meaning: red is the color of life and symbolizes the blood of Christ. Moreover, since ancient times, the egg has been a symbol of the renewal of life. The red eggs therefore stand for the victory over death.
Påskekrimmen in Norway
At Easter, the crime novels are unpacked in Norway, because Easter time is crime time here. Traditionally, crime and detective stories are read, watched or listened to at this time and numerous new books in the genre are published shortly beforehand. TV channels and radio stations also run crime series, with Norwegians excitedly following along. You can even find short crime stories on milk cartons during this time. This tradition was triggered by the immense popularity of a crime novel from 1923.
These were the most bizarre Easter traditions in Europe - so Easter is more than just colourful Easter eggs after all! In our Magazine you will find more exciting articles that will awaken your wanderlust. If you are already drawn to faraway places, then take a look at our Travel on.
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