Like
all other festivals and holidays, Easter is also celebrated in different
fashions in different parts of the world. Many countries of Europe,
celebrate Easter by lighting giant bonfires on hilltops and in
churchyards on Easter Eve. These giant bonfires are sometimes called
Judas fires, because effigies of Judas Iscariot are commonly burned in
them. The Easter bonfires predate Christianity and were originally
intended to celebrate the arrival of spring. Many countries of Europe
like England, France, Sweden, Italy, Germany, and Netherlands have
unique Easter traditions.s
France:
Easter is called Paques in France. The main celebration sets off on
Good Friday with a somber note. To mourn the crucification of Christ,
church bells are not rung for three days. On Easter morning the children
hurry into the garden to watch the bells "Fly back from Rome".
Italy:
Italians call it La Pasqua. Easter is celebrated with real fanfare in
this country. The Paschal feast is celebrated with Angelino, (a roasted
baby lamb) Italy's extraordinary popular dish on the occasion of Easter.
Special crown shaped breads are prepared on the occasion and children
relish it very much.
Netherlands:
Easter is called Pasen or Pasen Zontag in Netherlands. Easter is
celebrated as a spring holiday in Netherlands. People arrange decorated
tables for Easter dinner. Sweet bread is an important dish of the Easter
feast. Sweden:
Sweden
In Sweden Easter is called Påskdagen. All over Sweden, Egg
features in all Easter food and Easter games. Egg coloring parties, a
favorite of virtually every household, are one of the most important
activities on this occasion. Young boys and girls participate in Egg
rolling contests. Bonfires are a part of the Easter Traditions here in
Sweden as well. People gather in large numbers to enjoy these bonfires.
