Arena Redaktion, 27.03.2024

Easter customs – cherished traditions for the holiday

Easter is just around the corner! And we know what that means – it’s time to embrace those beloved family Easter traditions, from dyeing and hiding eggs to indulging in the delicious Easter lamb.

Here we go again: the first signs of spring are popping up, with colourful chocolate bunnies gracing the shelves of supermarkets. Yes, you guessed it – Easter is getting closer by the minute! This year, Easter Sunday falls on 31 March. In Christianity, Easter holds great significance as believers celebrate the resurrection of Christ. But beyond its religious roots, it’s a joyous family affair for all ages. And what would Easter be without its rich traditions that truly make the holiday come alive?

Can’t have Easter without eggs, right?

What’s an Easter basket without eggs? They’re an absolute must-have! Eggs have been a staple of Easter celebrations for ages, symbolising fertility, renewal, and fresh beginnings. And the tradition of dyeing eggs? Well, that goes way back to the Middle Ages, when, during the fasting period, people couldn’t eat eggs, so they boiled them in advance to make them last. To avoid any mix-ups with raw eggs, they dunked them in dye – and voilà, egg dyeing was born. The tradition of giving eggs at Easter also dates back to the Middle Ages. Eggs were a precious commodity at the time and were considered a welcome gift for lords, teachers, or clergy.

Egg dyeing – nature’s palette

One of the best parts of Easter is dyeing and decorating eggs together as a family. It’s great fun for the little ones (and the grown-ups too!), turning boring white and brown eggs into vibrant rainbow masterpieces. And guess what? You don’t need those chemical dye tablets that are so common these days. Natural colours from plants and household ingredients are not only healthier but also save you some work. Instead of boiling the eggs separately, they’re cooked together with the natural dyes in a colourful bath.

Here’s how it’s done!

Still looking for the perfect dye? Don’t worry, Mother Nature’s here to help. Turmeric powder or chamomile flowers work wonders for a sunny yellow hue. Want orange eggs? Reach for those onion skins. And for a pop of red or pink, beets are the way to go. After a dip in nettle or spinach dye, your eggs will shine in shades of yellow or pastel green. Feeling blue? Red cabbage will do the trick, while blueberry or elderberry juice adds a touch of lilac.

Once your colours are ready, it’s time to get cracking! For the dye bath, first boil two to three handfuls of colouring agent with a litre of hot water. Then, let the plant parts simmer for about 20 minutes before removing them and adding the raw eggs. Add a splash of vinegar, then let it simmer again for ten to 15 minutes – done! A little vegetable oil after drying ensures an even more intense colour shine. Then it’s time to put them in the Easter basket!

Easter traditions – bunnies and lambs

No Easter celebration would be complete without our fluffy friend, the Easter bunny! Whether in the form of delicious chocolate bunnies or as the bearer of gifts, hiding nests for the children – it’s as much a part of Easter as the eggs. While many consider it an invention of consumerism, it is also, in truth, a symbol of fertility and reproduction.

Another Easter favourite? The Easter lamb! In Christianity, the lamb symbolises innocence and Christ’s sacrifice for humanity. Whether you’re serving up a delicious roast or a baked treat adorned with powdered sugar and raisins, the Easter lamb is a true holiday classic.