Easter Sunday is one of the most significant and widely recognized celebrations, particularly in Christian societies. It commemorates the resurrection of Jesus Christ, an important event in Christian history that represents spiritual rejuvenation, hope, and fresh life. Beyond its religious origins, Easter has evolved into a popular cultural event that unites families and communities for joyous get-togethers, springtime customs, and festive events.
Various cultures and nations celebrate Easter in a variety of ways, which contributes to the holiday’s richness and diversity. Students, educators, and school staff also celebrate Easter in a number of ways at home.
In Armenian culture, Easter—called Zatik—is one of the most sacred and celebrated holidays in the Armenian Apostolic Church. The celebration often begins with a solemn Holy Week, leading up to Resurrection Sunday, when churches are filled with hymns and candles, and the faithful greet each other with the traditional words “Krisdos haryav i merelots” (“Christ is risen from the dead”), answered with “Orhnyal e harutyun’n Krisdosi” (“Blessed is the resurrection of Christ”).
Hasmik Shaghoyan(28) says, “My family gets ready early in the morning to attend “Patarag,” a ceremony celebrated in the Armenian Church to honor Jesus’ resurrection and offer prayers.”
In Russian culture, where Easter is celebrated as Paskha, people say “Christ is risen!” and then “Yes, He is risen!” to each other. Church services with lights, bells, and lovely chanting are attended by families late into the morning. Above all, Easter is a very family-oriented and social holiday in Russia. Families get together for lavish dinners, pay respects to departed loved ones at cemeteries, and exchange presents and messages.
Easter Sunday is observed globally in a variety of ways that are influenced by regional cultures and religious beliefs. It frequently involves church services, egg hunts, and joyous dinners in the US and most of Western Europe.
Britannica.com mentions, “Religious ceremonies and processions are the main events in nations like Spain and Italy. Orthodox Christians commemorate with midnight church services, special greetings, and traditional fare like bread, lamb, and sweet treats in Russia and Greece. Easter’s central message celebrating Jesus’ resurrection and the victory of life over death remains universal despite national variations.”
Easter continues to be an important symbol of new life and universal belief despite the diversity of customs, serving as a constant reminder to people everywhere of the timeless message of hope, unity, and spiritual rebirth.