As spring unfolds, people across the globe celebrate by trading gifts and tales of optimism on Easter
Easter, a festivity of revival and happiness, that falls on April 20 this year, originates from ancient customs. Originating in early Christianity, it celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ. As spring unfolds, people across the globe celebrate by trading gifts and tales of optimism. Easter unites families with old customs and delightful goodies, marking the beginning of the season full of affection and comfort.
Seville, Spain
Locals engage in Easter customs like the La Madrugá procession on Good Friday morning (Photo: Canva)
Seville, in southern Spain, is famous for its Semana Santa or Holy Week festivities, recognised as some of the most intense and moving globally. The processions, referred to as pasos, involve elaborate floats that transport statues of Christ and the Virgin Mary through the streets, carried by brotherhoods. The air is rich with music, incense, and candlelight, crafting an emotional experience. Engaging in local Easter customs, like the La Madrugá procession on Good Friday morning, is especially well-known for its intense music and serious ambiance.
Marrakech, Morocco
In North Africa, Moroccan town of Marrakech provides a distinctive Easter experience, merging cultural discovery with celebratory events. Although Easter is not extensively observed, the expat community in the city arranges activities such as services at the nearby Catholic Church. Visitors can indulge in parties at opulent resorts like the Fairmont Royal Palm, located 20 minutes away from the city centre, featuring Moroccan dishes and live entertainment. Discover lively markets, cultural sites, and enjoy authentic meals such as tagine and couscous. For unwinding, treat yourself to a Moroccan hammam or participate in a cooking class to perfect traditional local dishes.
Also Read: Macau to see 100,000 visitors per day during Easter
Rhodes, Greece
Easter Saturday includes the Holy Light ceremony at midnight, accompanied by fireworks (Photo: Canva)
In Greece, Rhodes provides a lively Easter celebration rich in Greek Orthodox customs. Holy Thursday starts with children gathering flowers to decorate the Epitaphios, a Christian religious icon, as families colour red eggs and prepare tsourekia, the traditional Greek Easter bread. On Good Friday, grave processions occupy the streets, fostering a contemplative ambiance. Easter Saturday includes the Holy Light ceremony at midnight, accompanied by fireworks and a feast of mayeritsa, Greek traditional soup.
Easter Sunday is marked by roasted lamb, traditional meals, and vibrant celebrations, making Rhodes an unforgettable place for cultural experience and festive happiness.
Jerusalem
The city provides a deep spiritual experience (Photo: I Travel Jerusalem)
Holy City of Jerusalem, considered to be extremely sacred by all three Abrahamic religions, Christianity, Judaism and Islam, is situated in the Southern Levant of the Middle East. It is one of the most significant places in the world for Easter festivities.
The city provides a deep spiritual experience, especially at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, thought to be the location of Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection. Join the Easter Sunday Mass at this historic church and experience the Holy Fire Ceremony, during which a flame is ignited inside the church to represent Christ’s resurrection. This occasion is a key feature of the Easter festivities in Jerusalem. One can also stroll along the Via Dolorosa, the route that Jesus is thought to have traversed to his crucifixion, and explore the Stations of the Cross. Savouring Middle Eastern dishes such as falafel, shawarma and maqluba enhances the city’s charm.
Cusco, Peru
Easter Sunday joyfully commemorates Christ’s resurrection with festive parades (Photo: Machu Travel Peru)
For a taste of Easter in Latin American region, head to Cusco, in Peru, that becomes vibrant with a lively blend of Andean and Catholic customs. Highlights of Holy week feature the Palm Sunday blessing of braided crosses and the Holy Monday procession of Señor de los Temblores, late 16th-century statue of the crucifixion of Jesus, decorated with ñucchu flowers.
Families make 12 classic dishes on Holy Thursday, representing the last supper. Good Friday includes serious reenactments, whereas Easter Sunday joyfully commemorates Christ’s resurrection with festive parades. Visitors can also discover Machu Picchu, 15th-century Inca citadel located in the Eastern Cordillera of southern Peru or participate in Hampi Rantikuy, a festival for healing herbs.
Port Louis, Mauritius
Port Louis, the capital city of Mauritius, an island country in southern Africa, provides an opulent escape with its combination of colonial heritage, lively markets, and contemporary facilities. Although it might not be as famous for its beaches as other regions of the island, Port Louis offers a distinctive urban experience along with proximity to nearby resorts and attractions.
Though Mauritius is a multicultural island featuring a sizable Christian community, Easter festivities are not as pronounced as in several European nations. Nonetheless, numerous hotels and resorts host themed events, brunches, and activities for Easter, creating an excellent opportunity for a lavish retreat with loved ones.
Also Read: 11 million Britishers to take trips for Easter weekend: VisitEngland
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands becomes a paradise of brightness and happiness in the spring, particularly during Easter. The ambiance of the city, along with its beautiful blooming gardens, creates a perfect spot for anyone looking for an Easter celebration. Although not as noticeable as in certain European cities, Amsterdam’s Easter festivities feature family-oriented events such as Easter egg hunts and special brunches at nearby cafes and restaurants.
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