In many Western countries, Easter is just as important as Christmas. Easter is of course the celebration of Christ's resurrection from the dead and is traditionally celebrated on Sunday. The celebration marks the end of Holy Week, the end of Lent, the last day of the Easter Triduum (Holy Thursday, Good Friday and Easter Sunday), and is the beginning of the Easter season.

Along with the great importance internationally of Easter,  let’s examine together with Eastant some of the essential aspects of the Easter period:

The Easter Bunny/Rabbit

Probably the most popular Easter tradition is that of the Easter bunny/rabbit bringing gifts to children. Originally, the Easter bunny or “Easter Rabbit” was some sort of a judge that evaluated whether children were good or naughty and decided if they deserved to receive sweets and colored eggs, much like Santa Claus.

Hot Cross Buns

Hot cross buns are traditionally eaten on Palm Sunday. Many Christians relate the cross on the buns to the cross on which Jesus died and it is said that buns with crosses have be found dating back to A. D. 79; crosses on cakes have been associated with many superstitious beliefs throughout the years including:

Hot cross buns, baked on Good Friday, cure diarrhea, dysentery, and other similar complaints.

Hot cross buns, baked on Good Friday, never get moldy.

Hot cross buns, baked on Good Friday, protect houses from fire.

Hot cross buns, baked on Good Friday, protect sailors from shipwreck.

Hot cross buns, baked on Good Friday, keeps rats, mice, and weevils away from corn.

Egg Hunt

The egg, as a symbol of rebirth, is present in many other Easter traditions. The type of eggs being hidden vary from the classic painted hard-boiled eggs to chocolate eggs wrapped in foil or plastic eggs filled with candies based on regional differences and cultures. Children typically go egg hunting equipped with a basket and the hunt can take place outdoors (most often) or indoors. Also, depending on children ages, the hidden eggs vary in size and are placed in less or more concealed hiding places. Either way,  fun is guaranteed!

Family Gathering

Easter is also a day for family reunion and a time to feast and indulge after the Lent period of fasting and self reflection, a similar tradition to that of the Chinese New Year, so this year be sure to gather friends and family around with an abundance of food and celebrate this Easter Sunday.