Easter Monday in Italy

Easter Monday, known as "Pasquetta" in Italy, translates to "Little Easter" and is celebrated the day after Easter Sunday. It is a national holiday across the country, providing Italians with an extended weekend to relax and enjoy the springtime.

History and Traditions

• Religious Significance: While Easter Monday doesn't have specific religious ceremonies associated with it, its roots are tied to Christianity, marking the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
• La Pasquetta: The name reflects the continuation of Easter celebrations and is considered part of the broader Easter festivities.

Activities on Easter Monday

• Picnics and Outings: Italians traditionally go on picnics or short trips to the countryside. It's a time for family and friends to gather outdoors, enjoying nature's renewal.
• Food: Leftover lamb from Easter Sunday, salami, cheeses, artichokes, and frittatas are common picnic foods. Sweet treats such as "colomba di Pasqua," a dove-shaped Easter cake, are also enjoyed.
• Festivals and Events: Some towns hold special events or festivals with music, dancing, and various forms of entertainment.
• Sports: Informal games and sports like soccer or "tamburello," a court game similar to tennis but played with tambourines as rackets, are often played during these outings.

Overall, while there isn't a set pattern of celebration for Easter Monday in Italy as there is for Easter Sunday's religious observances, it is a day dedicated to leisure activities that celebrate community and the advent of spring.