Greek Easter and the Holy Week

Greek Orthodox Easter is one of the most important celebrations in Greece. Families gather and traditions are followed as people celebrate with love, joy, and delicious food. But have you ever wondered why Greek Easter is sometimes celebrated on a different date than other religions? Or what happens during Holy Week, leading up to Easter Sunday? Let’s discover why Greek Easter is so unique.

Why is Greek Easter on a Different Date?

Have you ever wondered why Greek Orthodox Easter is celebrated on a different day from Easter in many other countries? The answer is simple: Greek Orthodox Christians follow the Julian calendar, an older calendar that differs from the Gregorian calendar used by most countries. Sometimes Greek Easter matches the date of Easter celebrated by others, but usually, it does not. This is why Easter in Greece doesn’t always happen at the same time with spring break in schools around the world.

Why Do Greeks Celebrate Easter?

Easter is the most important holiday for Greek Orthodox Christians. During Easter, Greeks celebrate the journey of Jesus Christ—from his early life through his suffering, death, and finally, his resurrection (Anastasi). They prepare for Easter by fasting, praying, and reflecting on Jesus’ life and the meaning of Anastasi.

The Easter period begins three weeks before Lent, called the Triodion, and ends fifty days after Easter Sunday with Pentecost. The most special part is Holy Week, the week leading up to Easter Sunday. During this time, people focus on Jesus’ experiences and show extra kindness and forgiveness. For forty days after Easter, Greeks joyfully greet each other with “Christ is Risen!” (Χριστός Ανέστη) and reply, “Truly, He has Risen!” (Αληθώς Ανέστη).

Holy Week: Days, Meanings, and Traditions

Holy Monday marks the beginning of Holy Week. People remember the life of Saint Joseph Pangalos, who faced many hardships similar to Jesus. It’s a quiet day when families start a strict fast and reflect on these stories.

Holy Tuesday emphasizes forgiveness and love. People gather in churches to hear the beautiful hymn of Kassiani, written by a woman who taught about kindness and forgiveness. Families also bake sweet Easter cookies called “koulourakia,” making the day special and enjoyable.

Holy Wednesday highlights compassion and respect for others. People recall Mary Magdalene who anointed Jesus’ feet, showing deep respect and love. They also remember the Last Supper Jesus shared with his disciples. Many Greek families use this day to thoroughly clean their homes, preparing for the coming Easter celebrations.

Holy Thursday is a sad and meaningful day, commemorating Jesus’ crucifixion. Families dye eggs bright red, symbolizing the blood shed by Jesus. The sad ringing of church bells reminds everyone of Christ’s suffering. Families bake traditional sweet bread, “tsoureki,” to enjoy on Easter Sunday.

Good Friday is a day of mourning. In the morning, the Epitaph, symbolizing Jesus’ tomb, is decorated with beautiful flowers. In the evening, everyone joins a quiet candlelit procession through the streets, following the decorated Epitaph while reflecting together on Jesus’ sacrifice.

Holy Saturday is filled with excitement and anticipation. Late at night, families gather at church awaiting the Resurrection of Christ. Just before midnight, church lights are extinguished, symbolizing Jesus’ death. At midnight, the priest emerges with a candle lit from the Holy Light, chanting, “Come receive the light,” symbolizing Jesus rising from the dead. Everyone shares this Holy Light, lighting each other’s candles.

At midnight, joyful singing of “Χριστός Ανέστη εκ νεκρών…” (Christ has risen from the dead) fills the air. Fireworks illuminate the night sky, celebrating joy overcoming sadness. Families take the Holy Light home to bless their homes. After the service, everyone enjoys “magiritsa,” a traditional Easter soup made with lamb, lettuce, and lemon. Another beloved tradition is cracking red eggs, symbolizing Christ’s victory over death.

Easter Sunday: The Happiest Day of All

Easter Sunday is full of joy and celebration. Families roast lamb outdoors on a spit, a delicious meal eagerly awaited all year. Relatives and friends gather to share laughter, food, and stories. Tables overflow with tasty appetizers, sweets, and glasses of wine. Throughout the day, people happily greet each other saying, “Χρόνια Πολλά!” (Many Happy Years!), “Καλό Πάσχα!” (Happy Easter!) and “Χριστός Ανέστη!” (Christ is Risen!), celebrating love, friendship, and fresh starts.

Children especially enjoy Easter Sunday because of the many treats and sweets, like chocolates and cakes, shared with friends and family. They play games and enjoy outdoor activities, making this day unforgettable.

Unique Greek Traditions Across Greece

On Greek islands like Corfu, there’s a unique tradition called “Pot Throwing” on Easter Saturday. People throw clay pots from balconies, symbolizing discarding old troubles and welcoming new beginnings. On Chios island, residents enjoy “rouketopolemos,” a friendly competition between churches that involves spectacular fireworks lighting up the night sky.

Celebrating Together

Greek Easter is a wonderful time filled with meaningful traditions, delicious food, family gatherings, and joyful celebrations. Wherever you live, learning about these traditions helps everyone appreciate the beauty of Easter—love, kindness, forgiveness, and new beginnings.