Easter Sunday in Barbados

Easter Sunday in Barbados is a significant religious and cultural event, reflecting the island's predominantly Christian faith, inherited from its British colonial history. The day marks the resurrection of Jesus Christ and is celebrated on the first Sunday following the full moon that occurs on or after the vernal equinox.

History and Traditions:

• Religious Services: Many Bajans attend church services on Easter Sunday. Churches hold special masses or services to commemorate the resurrection of Jesus.
• Kite Flying: A unique tradition in Barbados on Easter is kite flying. The skies are adorned with colorful kites, which symbolize Christ's ascension.
• Family Gatherings: Families come together to celebrate with feasts that often include traditional dishes such as baked ham, jug-jug (a dish made from guinea corn flour and pigeon peas), and conkies (a cornmeal-based dessert wrapped in banana leaves).
• Easter Bonnets: Women and young girls often wear Easter bonnets – a holdover from British customs – to church services or family gatherings.

What People Do:

• Attend church services
• Participate in kite flying competitions or casual kite flying activities
• Enjoy family meals and community gatherings
• Engage in outdoor activities like picnics or beach outings, taking advantage of the public holiday atmosphere
• Children take part in Easter egg hunts, though this is more of a Western influence rather than a traditional Bajan custom

Easter Sunday is both a solemn religious observance and a joyful celebration for Barbadians. It offers an opportunity to reflect on spiritual themes as well as enjoy cultural practices that have become an integral part of the island's Easter festivities.