Orthodox Easter Monday in Lebanon

History and Significance

Orthodox Easter Monday follows Orthodox Easter Sunday, which is the culmination of the Holy Week for Eastern Orthodox Christians. The date of Orthodox Easter is determined by the Julian calendar, which often results in a different date than Western Easter, observed by Western Christian churches that follow the Gregorian calendar. In Lebanon, a country with a rich religious diversity, both Easters are public holidays.

Traditions

On Orthodox Easter Monday in Lebanon, traditions are similar to those of Western celebrations but with some distinct cultural and religious nuances. The day is marked by:

• Religious Services: Many people attend church services on this day as well to give thanks and continue the celebration of Christ's resurrection.
• Family Gatherings: Lebanese families often gather for a festive meal. Lamb is typically a central part of the meal along with other traditional dishes.
• Egg Tapping: A popular tradition is egg tapping or egg cracking where red-dyed eggs, symbolizing the blood of Christ and rebirth, are tapped against each other to see whose egg will last the longest without breaking.
• Outdoor Activities: With springtime weather, many take advantage of the holiday for picnics and outdoor activities.

What People Do on This Day

The general mood on Orthodox Easter Monday in Lebanon is one of joy and festivity. People engage in:

• Visiting relatives and friends to exchange Easter greetings.
• Children play games and enjoy treats like chocolate eggs and bunnies.
• Some may also take part in community parades or festivals if they are held.

Being a public holiday, most businesses are closed allowing people to fully participate in religious and family-oriented activities associated with this significant occasion.