Easter Celebrations in Germany

Easter in Germany is known as “Ostern”. So, if you hear someone saying “Frohe Ostern”, he is wishing “Happy Easter”. There are several traditions that are associated with its celebrations in Germany. Its celebrations begin

from Good Friday when the Cross is covered. On this day Germans enjoy a delicious fish meal. Prayer services are held in the churches and they continue until Sunday.

On Easter Sunday, people assemble in one place for lunch. The menu of Sunday Easter lunch includes a cake that is made in shape of a lamb. Colored eggs are served too.

As far as its icon in Germany is concerned, it is Easter Bunny. It is believed that this bunny hides eggs, cookies, and chocolates for kids. But it is for the children to find out where these goodies are hiding.

Easter egg hunting games are also played during this period. A group of children hide the eggs and the other group tries to locate them.

The concept of bunny was new in places like United States. But the immigrants who stayed back in USA spread this custom of bunny eggs. From then on, it has gained immense popularity over the years.

Sometimes eggs are gifted to children who eagerly wait to receive them from the elders in their house as well as from elderly people in the neighborhood.

In many cities around Germany, plays and shows depicting the life of Jesus Christ is enacted on stage. People from far and near visit these venues to watch these shows.

Easter traditions in Germany

Fire, tree, and parades are all part of its celebrations and traditions in Germany. Read further to know more about these interesting customs.

Tree
The Easter Tree is a typical German custom. In this the eggs are made hollow by siphoning out the yolk from both the ends of the egg. Once the egg shell is empty the shells are painted with bright colors. Then they are hung from trees and shrubs present in the house or in the neighborhood. These colored eggs are hung with colorful silk ribbons. The hollow colorful eggs are seen on trees till the time fire doesn’t take place. Easter fire is also another tradition followed in Germany on this occasion.

Parades
Easter Parades are also known as “Fasching”. This parade takes place mainly in Cologne. People with masks made of papier-mí¢chí© covering their faces march along streets. Easter walks are common too. They are more or less similar to the parade.

Fire
When it is time for Easter Fire, it is an indication that celebrations in Germany are coming to an end. Everyone has to eagerly wait for one full year before the festivities take place.

Christmas trees from the neighborhood and adjoining areas are collected in one place. Then these trees are set fire so that you get a bonfire. Burning trees also indicates that it is time to welcome spring and bid farewell to winter for one year.

Last Updated on 24/02/2011