Easter

Easter History

Easter commemorates the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, as described in the New Testament. The significance of the Observance translates into deep religious reverence, and this is often expressed through church services, fasting, praying, and acts of penitence. There is also a joyful undertone to the Observance as Easter symbolizes victory over death, promising eternal life to believers. The holiday resonates deeply with Christian faith and spirituality, while also encompassing a broad spectrum of cultural expressions and traditions.

The tradition of observing Easter dates back to the early Christian church. In the United States, Easter carries not just religious significance but also cultural and commercial aspects. Americans have adopted particular Easter customs that have European origins but have evolved distinctly over time in the country. One of the most popular is the Easter egg hunt, inspired loosely by the folklore of the Easter Bunny, a creature said to bring Easter eggs to well-behaved children. Other significant aspects include the decoration of Easter eggs, a reflective symbol of new life and resurrection, making it a rich and essential part of American Easter traditions.

In America, Easter observance is marked by both spiritual reflection and joyful celebration. Church services on Easter Sunday are commonly attended, where hymns are sung and sermons focus on the theme of Christ's resurrection. Children look forward to exciting Easter egg hunts, family gatherings feature abundant feasts, and parades are held in various communities. The date of Easter in America aligns with the Western Church, which follows the Gregorian calendar, and thus, it falls on the first Sunday after the first full moon following the Spring equinox.

Facts about Easter

• For many Christian congregations, the first Easter service for the year is the Service of Light. The worship typically starts in darkness on the preceding Saturday night or early Sunday morning. Light is brought into the church with candles to signify hope based on the resurrection. The service culminates with the lighting of a paschal candle, signifying Christ.
• Easter eggs represent new life and also symbolize the shape of Jesus' tomb.
• The colors for Easter are white and gold. Easter lilies are popular decorations in American churches. These white blooms are one of the earliest flowers to bloom in the spring and symbolize beauty, purity, and holiness.
• Easter also signifies the end of Lent, the 40-day period of fasting, preparation, and penitence observed by the faithful.
• Easter season starts on Easter Sunday and lasts 40 days until Pentecost. The date for Easter is determined by the moon. Easter is the Sunday after the first full moon of spring.

In the News and Trending in the US for Easter

Top things to do in the US for Easter

• Go to a children's Easter egg hunt or hold one of your own. Many churches have them the Saturday before Easter too.
• Cook an Easter dinner for family and friends. Traditional entrees include lamb or ham. During Lent (period leading up to Easter), many Roman Catholics exclude meat from their diet, so Easter is often indulgent on meat.
• Wear some new clothes to church. This is an ancient tradition that goes back to the early church when newly baptized persons were given a white gown to wear on Easter.
• Attend an Easter parade. The 5th Avenue Easter Parade in Manhattan, New York is one of the most lavish and famous for extravagant hats worn.