Easter Traditions
A Global Celebration of Renewal and Hope
Easter is one of the most significant holidays in Christianity. People around the world celebrate with great fervor and diverse traditions. So while the religious significance of Easter remains central, various cultures have added their own unique customs, making it a truly global celebration of renewal, hope and joy. Read on to discover some of these Easter traditions and our suggestions of classical sheet music to download and play this season.
Easter Egg Hunts
In the United States and much of Europe, Easter Sunday is often marked by colorful Easter egg hunts. Children excitedly scour gardens and parks for hidden eggs, which are often filled with candy or small toys. The tradition is believed to have originated in the 1700s in Germany with the custom of the Easter Hare, which laid eggs for children to find.
Easter Hymn, or Regina Coeli, from Cavalleria Rusticana by Mascagni is a beautiful piece for this season.
Holy Week Observances
In Greece, Easter, known as “Pascha,” is celebrated with great religious fervor. The week leading up to Easter Sunday, known as Holy Week, is marked by a series of solemn processions, church services, and rituals commemorating the Passion of Christ. On Easter Sunday, families gather for a festive meal featuring roasted lamb and “tsoureki,” a sweet bread braided with red-dyed eggs symbolizing Christ’s blood and resurrection.
Panis Angelicus or Bread of Angels by Franck. This is probably the most famous setting of the hymn “Sacris solemniis” written by Saint Thomas Aquinas
Semana Santa
In Spain, people observe Semana Santa, or Holy Week, with elaborate processions featuring hooded penitents, ornate floats carrying religious icons, and solemn rituals. Each region of Spain has its own unique traditions, but Seville hosts some of the most renowned processions. People fill the streets to watch the processions of the various lay brotherhoods carrying their processional scultures. The sound of marching bands and the fragrance of incense fills the air.
The Parade of the Wooden Soldiers, originally The Parade of the Tin Soldiers by Jessel.
Śmigus-Dyngus
In Poland, Easter Monday is celebrated with Śmigus-Dyngus, also known as Wet Monday. On this day, young people playfully drench each other with water, a tradition believed to have pagan origins symbolizing cleansing and fertility. So it’s not uncommon to see people armed with water guns and buckets, engaging in friendly water fights in the streets.
Kp.198, L.022 Sonata in E minor by Scarlatti. Reminding us of the sprinkle of rain while the sun is shining and a colourful rainbow appears.
Easter Bilby
Australians consider rabbits to be pests so the Easter Bilby has emerged as an alternative symbol of Easter. The bilby is an endangered native marsupial. Chocolate treats feature images of the Billy, raising awareness about conservation efforts and promoting sustainability.
Miserere mei, Deus is simply known as the Allegri Miserere. From Psalm 51, the mercy psalm.
Fasika
Easter is known as Fasika in Ethiopia. People celebrate with ancient rituals and vibrant ceremonies. The week leading up to Easter Sunday involves fasting, prayer, and attending church services. On Easter morning, families gather for a feast featuring traditional dishes such as “doro wat” (spicy chicken stew) and “injera” (sourdough flatbread).
If Ye Love Me by Tallis is another gentle anthem.
Påskekrim
In Norway, Easter is synonymous with Påskekrim, or Easter crime. Norwegians have a tradition of reading crime novels and watching detective series during the Easter holiday. Many television channels air crime dramas, and publishers release new mystery novels in anticipation of this tradition.
Stabat Mater by Pergolesi. Portraying the Virgin Mary’s suffering during her son Jesus’ crucifixion.
06 Vidit Suum Soprano Solo Ebmi
08 Fac ut Ardeat Choir Duet Fmi
Conclusion
These are just a few examples how the world celebrates with Easter traditions. While customs may vary, the essence of Easter—celebrating renewal, rebirth, and the triumph of hope over despair—remains universal. Whether you’re participating in an Easter egg hunt, attending a religious service, or enjoying a festive meal with loved ones, Easter is a time for reflection, gratitude, and joy.
Happy Easter from all of us at music-scores.com
