Easter in the UK

They say it’s the most important holiday for Christians. Traditionally, it is about Jesus Christ’s resurrection from death. What do the Brits love? Well, they’re keen on sharing chocolate eggs and taking part in egg competitions. Of course, there’s much more to know about English celebrations.

According to www.timeanddate.com „Easter is an important time for the confectionery industry. In the United Kingdom, Easter eggs are often large chocolate eggs filled with bonbons or other candy. The eggs are covered in decorative foil and packaged in elaborate boxes.

Many people celebrate Easter Sunday by decorating, exchanging or searching for eggs. The eggs may be fresh or boiled eggs laid by chickens or other birds, chocolate eggs or eggs made of other materials. Many children believe that the Easter bunny or rabbit comes to their house or garden to hide eggs.”

DAY BY DAY

Official celebrations start with Maundy Thursday when the Queen participates in the Ceremony of the Royal Maundy. She gives red and white purses to the most deserving senior citizens who have played an important role in local communities. They receive specially made coins.

Good Friday is celebrated as a bank holiday and people don’t go to work. On that day, they normally eat currant buns which are marked with a cross (so called hot cross buns).

Holy Saturday is a day to remember the day when Jesus lay in his tomb. It’s also the end of Lent. People usually go on a trip and enjoy a short holiday break. Church services are often held in darkness with lots of candles around to proclaim Christ’s rising.

On Easter Sunday, families eat dinner together and children organize egg hunts. They must find hidden eggs in the garden and the person who finds the most is the winner. If you like sweet things, you need to try some simnel cake (plum-cake with a lot of candied lemon peel, some saffron and dried fruits)

Last but not least Easter Monday, which is also a bank holiday. There’s a funny tradition in some parts of the UK. People take eggs to the top of the hill and roll them down (also known as „egg rolling”). If your egg gets to the foot of the hill as the first one, you’re the winner. Lots of good fun in a nice atmosphere.

Did you know that this year there will be The Big Egg Hunt in London. Just look at that:

SŁOWNICTWO