Germans have been closely linked with the occasion of Easter for a very long time. Easter bunnies were made a part of Easter occasion by the Germain immigrants which led to all the Easter egg activities.
Even though,
Easter in Germany is all about fun-filled Easter games and exciting activities, there are some religious rituals that take place as a part of this holy event.
Lent – an Easter tradition, is not so common in Germain but it is still practiced by some Catholics living there.
In fact,
The evident beginning of Easter is marked by Maundy Thursday, which represents the last day Jesus Christ had a supper with his followers.
Easter Traditions in Germany
Some of the Easter traditions that take place in Germany are mind-boggling, let’s get into it;
1. Grundonnerstag
Maundy Thursday also known as Grundonnerstag in German, is referred to as the last supper Jesus Christ had alongside his followers. Some people call it the ‘Last Supper’.
To acknowledge this day,
Germans have a tradition of eating green food on this day as it represents a day of grief. Green food could include, spinach or even Frankfurt’s green sauce mixed with other foods.
2. Bonfire
Bonfires are always fun!
People in Germany gather together and form a big circle around bonfires. This bonfire is built by lighting up an old Christmas tree.
It is done on any given day before Easter, provided that the day falls in the Holy Week. In some regions of the country, it is built one night before Easter Sunday.
The bonfire represents the end of the winter season, marking the arrival of spring along with welcoming the wonderful occasion of Easter.
3. Osterrarderlauf – Fire on a Big Wheel
For those of you who are not fascinated by the idea of bonfire,
Here’s something extra for you;
Lighting up fire on big wheels is considered an act for good omen. This tradition is followed in Lugde, North Rhine-Westphalia mostly.
It is built by joining the straws and filling them in a big enough wooden wheel. The wheel is then set on fire and allowed to roll down a gentle slope.
If the burning wheels roll straight down the slope then that means, it will bring good harvest next year. While, if the opposite happens and the wheel does not roll down on a straight path, it is considered as a bad omen.
4. Painting Easter Eggs
The concept of Easter eggs was introduced by the German immigrants in other parts of the world.
Now,
This tradition is enjoyed by kids all around the world which is why participating in different Easter egg activities is a tradition that many Christians follow.
One of the most anticipated Easter activities is painting the Easter eggs. Certain events and competitions are held in schools and family brunches where the children decorate eggs in their own fun way.
5. Ostermontag
Easter Monday is known as Ostermontag in German, which is the day of reflection for Christians.
You will come across parades early on Easter Monday morning. People walk through the streets with lit candles to mark the walk of Jesus Christ before crucifixion.
The church services are held at the end of this walk/parade.
Easter Monday being a public holiday offers a chance for parents to spend this day with their kids. People go out on picnics and enjoy Easter outdoor activities on this day.
In Germany,
Easter is not restricted to just visiting the church or family, instead it includes a lot of Easter games and amazing events. People start their preparations long before the occasion.
So, pick your favorite thing to do in Germany this Easter 2019 and have fun-filled holidays.
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