Featured Article: Easter Around the World
Easter, a holiday celebrated around the world, marks a time of renewal, hope, and new beginnings. Often associated with colorful eggs, bunny rabbits, and springtime flowers, its appeal extends to a wide audience. At its core, Easter commemorates the resurrection of Jesus Christ after his crucifixion, an event that carries profound meaning for many Christians.
The date of Easter varies each year, falling on the first Sunday after “The Paschal Full Moon,” the first full Moon after the spring equinox. For this reason, Easter is a movable holiday, occurring anywhere from late March to late April. This year, Easter Sunday falls on April 9th
For many, Easter is a time of spiritual reflection and observance. Churches hold special services and many Christians observe Lent in the weeks leading up to Easter, fasting and giving up certain luxuries as a form of sacrifice.
Beyond its religious significance, Easter has also become a popular secular holiday associated with springtime and egg-laying bunnies. One of the most beloved traditions is the Easter egg hunt, where children search for colorful eggs hidden throughout their homes or yards. Many families decorate their homes with bunny-themed decorations and exchange Easter baskets filled with candy and small gifts.
In addition to egg hunts and bunny decorations, many cultures have their own unique and interesting traditions. In Greece, it is customary to paint Easter eggs bright red and smash them together in a game of "tsougrisma." In Sweden, children dress up as old men and women to go door to door in search of sweets in a tradition known as "påskkärringar." Here in the United States, the White House holds its annual Easter Egg Roll, where children roll Easter eggs across the White House lawn.
While Easter celebrations may differ from culture to culture, the holiday serves as a reminder of the power of new beginnings and the hope that comes with spring. It is a time to come together with family and friends, celebrate life, and embrace the joy of the season.
