Greek Easter Celebrations

Greek Easter celebrations are known as Pascha or the Feast of the Resurrection, usually observed over a certain period of time. Various festive activities are held in those areas which are pre dominated by Greek Easter religious faith. Solemnization of Greek Easter sbegins two months before with Mardi Gras as on Holy Thursday, traditional Easter bread are prepared and eggs are dyed in red colors. Since ancient times, eggs symbolize fertility and it was believed that red Easter eggs signify the blood of Christ.

Traditional Greek Easter celebration are observed according to ancient beliefs and rituals because 50 days before Easter is known as Triodion, and observed as days dedicated to fortification of faith in the Lord, starting with Clean Monday or Kathara Deftera as known in Greek terms.

The first day of Megali Sarakosti, which falls on seventh of Monday before Easter, marks the beginning of the great fast. While the celebration on Greek Easter, followed through the 50 days fast is known as Pentecostarion, the Saturday before Palm Sunday is known as Saturday of Lazarus. One of the major Greek Easter festivities is that on Holy Tuesday, housewives make sweet rolls called the koulourakia and on Holy Saturday the Resurrection mass takes place held at churches at different parts of Greece.

Special Greek Easter celebrations are observed through midnight prayer service which falls on Holy Saturday with all the lights being extinguished in the church and the priest comes forward from behind the church doors, stands on the altar carrying a candle, then all the candles are lit and every body says “anesti, Christos anesti, Christ has risen, indeed He has risen”. However, it’s on Easter Sunday, that bonfire is lit followed by family gathering and roasting of lamb.

Thus, Greek Easter celebration is more than just a religious observance for it fills the air with joy and happiness. Here’s wishing all readers------- Chronia Polla! Easter Wishes!

Easter Egg

Easter Symbols