Easter Sunday in Lithuania

Easter Sunday in Lithuania, known as Velykos, is one of the most significant and widely celebrated holidays in the country. Rooted in Christian traditions, it commemorates the resurrection of Jesus Christ and marks the end of Lent, a period of fasting and penitence.

History and Traditions:

Lithuania's Easter customs are a blend of Christian practices and pre-Christian Baltic paganism. The day is filled with various rituals that have been passed down through generations.

• Šventinės Mišios (Easter Mass): Many Lithuanians start Easter Sunday by attending mass at church, celebrating the resurrection of Christ.
• Margučiai (Easter Eggs): Decorating eggs is a deep-rooted tradition. These eggs are dyed using natural substances such as onion peels or beets and often bear intricate patterns symbolizing nature and new life.
• Velykų Bobutė (Easter Granny): Similar to Western cultures' Easter Bunny, children in some parts of Lithuania believe that an old lady brings them painted eggs if they have been good.
• Swing Traditions: Swinging on large wooden swings was an ancient ritual believed to chase away evil spirits and ensure a good harvest.

Activities on Easter Sunday:

On this day, families gather for a festive meal that includes dishes like roasted meats, usually lamb or ham, representing the sacrificial Lamb of God. A variety of cold dishes such as herring salad, pâtés, and cheeses also grace the table.

• Egg Games: A popular activity is egg rolling or egg knocking (margučių mušimas), where family members tap each other's eggs to see whose egg can withstand the most hits.
• Sharing Blessings: It's common to share food blessed on Holy Saturday with family members while exchanging well-wishes.
• Outdoor Activities: Depending on the weather, people might go for walks or engage in outdoor activities to enjoy nature's awakening after winter.

These traditions reflect Lithuania's rich cultural tapestry and are an essential part of preserving the nation's heritage.