Easter is the most important holiday in Christianity, celebrating Jesus Christ’s resurrection from the dead three days after his crucifixion. It’s a joyous occasion that marks the core of Christian faith – the triumph of life over death.
When is Easter?
Unlike many holidays that fall on a fixed date, Easter’s date changes every year. It’s always celebrated on the first Sunday following the first full moon after the spring equinox (around March 21st). This means Easter can fall anywhere between March 22nd and April 25th.
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What is the History of Easter?
The word “Easter” likely comes from the Latin phrase “in albis,” meaning “in white” – referring to the white baptismal robes worn by new Christians during Easter week.
Early Christians faced some debate about the exact date for celebrating Easter. Eastern and Western churches had different traditions, but eventually, the Council of Nicaea in 325 AD decided on the current method of calculating the date.
** tradisi** ( tradisi means tradition in Indonesian. Here, a more natural word would be “customs”)
Easter Customs and Traditions
Easter has collected many customs over the centuries, some with religious roots and others more playful. Here are a few of the most popular traditions:
1- Easter Lent
Lent is the 40-day period leading up to Easter Sunday in Christianity. It’s a time of preparation and reflection that helps Christians focus on the spiritual significance of Easter – the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Here’s a breakdown of Lent’s role in relation to Easter:
Lent is like a training period for Easter. Just as athletes train before a big competition, Christians use Lent to prepare their hearts and minds for the celebration of Easter.
During Lent, Christians reflect on Jesus’ sacrifice and teachings. They might participate in activities like prayer, fasting, or giving to charity.
Many Christians choose to give up something they enjoy during Lent (like chocolate or social media) as a way to show their commitment to their faith.
Building Up to Easter:
As Lent progresses, the focus intensifies on the events leading up to Jesus’ crucifixion on Good Friday. This anticipation makes the joy of Easter Sunday even more powerful.
2- Easter Holy Week
Holy Week is the most solemn and significant week in the Christian calendar, leading up to Easter Sunday. It’s a time to commemorate the final events in Jesus’ life, from his triumphant entry into Jerusalem to his crucifixion and resurrection.
Here’s a breakdown of Holy Week:
Holy Week lasts for seven days, starting on Palm Sunday and ending on Holy Saturday (the day before Easter Sunday). Each day of Holy Week highlights a specific event leading up to Jesus’ death and resurrection.
Easter Days:
Palm Easter Sunday:
This marks Jesus’ arrival in Jerusalem, where he was greeted by crowds waving palm branches.
Easter Monday to Thursday:
This commemorates the Last Supper, where Jesus shared a final meal with his disciples and established the sacrament of Holy Communion.
Easter Good Friday:
This is a day of mourning, remembering Jesus’ crucifixion and death on the cross.
Easter Holy Saturday:
A day of quiet reflection and anticipation before the joyous celebration of Easter Sunday.
Holy Week is a time for Christians to reflect on the profound meaning of Jesus’ sacrifice and its role in their faith. Many churches hold special services throughout the week, allowing people to participate in prayers, readings, and meditations. Holy Week serves as a bridge between the suffering and sacrifice of Jesus and the ultimate triumph of his resurrection celebrated on Easter Sunday. By experiencing the sorrow of Holy Week, the joy of Easter becomes even more meaningful.
3- Easter Eggs
Easter eggs are a fun tradition linked to the Christian holiday of Easter, but the connection might seem strange at first.
Easter eggs represent new life emerging from a seemingly lifeless shell. This reflects the core message of Easter – Jesus Christ’s resurrection from the dead. The tradition of decorating eggs for Easter dates back centuries. Early Christians might have stained them red to symbolize Jesus’ blood shed on the cross.
Today, Easter eggs come in all shapes, sizes, and colors. They’re often decorated with paint, glitter, stickers, or even wrapped in candy wrappers. Easter eggs have become a popular Eastertime tradition, even for those who don’t celebrate the religious aspects of the holiday. Here’s why:
Eggs are naturally associated with spring, a time of renewal and new beginnings, which aligns with the Easter message. Decorating Easter eggs is a fun and creative activity for families and friends, especially for children.
Easter Egg Hunt:
The classic Easter egg hunt, where children search for hidden eggs filled with treats, is a beloved tradition for many.
4- Easter Meals
Easter feasts are special meals enjoyed by families and friends to celebrate Easter Sunday. They’re a time to come together, share delicious food, and celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Here’s a deeper look at Easter feasts:
Easter feasts typically happen after church services on Easter Sunday itself, or sometimes on Easter Monday. They mark a break from the restrictions of Lent, the 40-day period leading up to Easter when many Christians abstain from certain foods or activities. While traditions vary by region, Easter feasts often feature:
Referencing Jesus’ title as the “Lamb of God” in the Bible. Fresh vegetables, fruits, and other seasonal ingredients often make an appearance. Desserts like cakes, pies, or hot cross buns add a festive touch. Many families have cherished Easter feast traditions, passing down special dishes from generation to generation.
Easter Gathering and Joy:
Beyond the food, Easter feasts are about spending quality time with loved ones, reflecting on the meaning of Easter, and sharing the joy of the holiday.
Easter Feasting in Dubai: A Delicious Guide for All Budgets
Looking for the perfect way to celebrate Easter in Dubai? From lavish brunches to delightful family gatherings, Dubai’s restaurants are offering a variety of options to suit every taste and budget. Here’s a curated list to help you plan your Easter Sunday:
Family-Friendly Fun:
1- Boardwalk (Dubai Creek Resort):
Enjoy a delightful Easter buffet brunch with live cooking stations, featuring everything from gourmet cheese to French oysters. The highlight? A dedicated “eggstravaganza” for the kids, including an egg hunt, decorating stations, and face painting.
Dhs295 (soft drinks), Dhs410 (house drinks) Dhs145 (for kids six-12). 1-4pm, Sun Mar 31. Boardwalk, Dubai Creek Resort (04 205 4647)
2- Habtoor Grand Resort:
Immerse yourselves in an “egg-straordinary” experience at Luciano’s Garden. While you indulge in a delicious Easter feast with international flavors, the kids can embark on a thrilling treasure hunt.
Dhs350 (soft drinks) Dhs450 (house drinks) Dhs550 (bubbly). 12.30-4.30pm, Sun Mar 31. Habtoor Grand Resort, Autograph Collection, Al Falea St, Jumeirah Beach (04 3995000)
3- JA The Resort:
Join the resort’s vibrant Easter Brunch Extravaganza for a memorable celebration under the sun. Live entertainment, magic shows, and a diverse array of cuisines will keep everyone entertained, while the kids can enjoy fun activities like egg hunts and face painting.
Dhs449 (soft drinks) Dhs499 (house drinks) Dhs250 (for kids 4-12) noon-4pm, Sun Mar 31. JA The Resort, (04 814 5604)
Upscale Easter Feasts:
1- Amò at Via Toledo (Address Beach Resort):
Treat yourselves to an exquisite Easter set menu showcasing the best of Italian cuisine. This elegant venue promises an unforgettable dining experience.
Dhs450. Noon-4pm, Sun Mar 31. Amò at Via Toledo, Address Beach Resort (04 582 5737)
2- Cucina (The Palm):
Embark on a culinary journey through Italy with Cucina’s special “Pasqua” Easter celebration. Indulge in a delightful buffet featuring unlimited freshly made pasta and a variety of other Italian specialties.
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Dhs399 (soft drinks) Dhs499 (house drinks) Dhs599 (bubbly) Dhs180 (kids aged six-12). 1.30pm-4.30pm, Sun Mar 31.Cucina, The Palm (04 666 140)
3- Mandarin Oriental Jumeira:
The Bay at Mandarin Oriental Jumeira invites you to a special Easter Brunch featuring a wide selection of Mediterranean-inspired dishes. Enjoy breathtaking beachside views while sharing delicious food with your loved ones.
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Dhs549 (house drinks), Dhs649 (bubbly) Dhs200 (for kids four-11) 1-4pm, Sun Mar 31. Jumeirah Beach Rd, (04 777 2233)
Casual and Budget-Friendly:
1- Fibber Magee’s:
Enjoy a classic Sunday roast with all the trimmings for a wallet-friendly Easter celebration. They also offer happy hour deals and live music throughout the day.
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Dhs99. Sun Mar 31. Saeed Tower 1 – Sheikh Zayed Rd – Trade Centre. ( 04 332 2400)
2- Mezzanine Bar and Kitchen:
Head to Mezzanine for a traditional roast dinner with all the trimmings, while enjoying live music and stunning views of the Burj Al Arab.
Dhs175, Dhs95 (kids aged 12 and below). Noon-7pm, Sun Mar 31. Souk Madinat Jumeirah, Umm Suqeim, (058 599 4659)
No matter what your preference or budget, Dubai has the perfect Easter celebration waiting for you. So gather your loved ones, choose your venue, and get ready to enjoy a delicious and memorable Easter feast.
5- Easter Baskets
An Easter basket is a woven basket traditionally used during the Easter season in Christian cultures. Here’s a breakdown of its significance and how it’s used:
Easter Baskets Symbolism:
The basket itself might have roots in pre-Christian traditions, symbolizing fertility and new beginnings – fitting themes for springtime and Easter. In Christianity, the basket is often linked to the Easter story. It might represent. After Jesus’ resurrection, his tomb was found empty. The basket could symbolize this emptiness.
Once Lent (the 40-day period of fasting and reflection leading up to Easter) is over. Easter baskets are filled with treats, symbolizing abundance and the joy of the resurrection.
Easter Baskets For Adults:
In some traditions, Easter baskets are still given to adults, often containing religious items or small gifts.
Easter Baskets For Children:
The most common use today is for children. Baskets are filled with Easter-themed treats and small toys, creating excitement for the holiday.
Here’s what you might find inside:
Easter Baskets Candy:
Chocolate eggs, bunnies, and other sweet treats are a staple.
Easter Baskets Toys:
Figurines related to Easter (bunnies, chicks), small cars, or other fun items.
Easter Non-candy Items:
Some parents might include books, coloring supplies, or other non-candy treats.
Easter baskets are often used during Easter egg hunts. Children carry their baskets to collect colorful plastic eggs filled with candy or small toys. Even for those who don’t celebrate Easter religiously, Easter baskets have become a fun springtime tradition for families and children.
6- Easter Bunny
The Easter Bunny is a well-known folklore figure and symbol of Easter, particularly popular in Western cultures. Here’s a breakdown of its origins, traditions, and meanings:
Easter Bunny Origins:
The Easter Bunny origins are a bit fuzzy, but it likely has roots in pre-Christian and Germanic traditions. Hares and rabbits were symbols of fertility and new life, fitting themes for springtime. The “Easter Hare” (“Osterhase” in German) is thought to be the precursor to the Easter Bunny. German Lutherans had a tradition of children making nests where the Easter Hare would lay colored eggs as a reward for good behavior.
Easter Bunny Modern Traditions:
1- Egg Delivery:
Today, the Easter Bunny is typically depicted as a white rabbit dressed in colorful clothes, often carrying a basket filled with Easter eggs. The tradition is that the Easter Bunny delivers these eggs to children’s homes on Easter Eve or Easter morning.
2- Egg Hunts:
Children participate in Easter egg hunts, searching for hidden eggs that the Easter Bunny is said to have left behind. These eggs are usually filled with candy or small toys.
3- Secular Symbol:
While the Easter Bunny has some connection to Christian traditions, it’s become a more secular symbol of Easter, enjoyed by people who may not celebrate the religious aspects of the holiday.
Like the hare and rabbit symbolism, the Easter Bunny reflects the themes of spring – new beginnings, growth, and fertility. The Easter Bunny adds a playful and magical element to the Easter holiday, particularly for children. Egg hunts and the anticipation of receiving Easter baskets filled with treats create excitement and joy.
Eastern Celebrations Variations Around the World:
While the Easter Bunny is a widespread symbol, there are variations in traditions around the world:
Other Egg-Laying Creatures: In some countries, other egg-laying creatures might take the place of the Easter Bunny, such as a fox or a cuckoo bird.
Overall, the Easter Bunny is a beloved springtime and Easter tradition, bringing joy and fun to children and adults alike.
Easter Catholic Mass
The Catholic Mass is kind of like the central event for Catholics, where they gather to worship and connect with God. It’s all about remembering what Jesus did and receiving his blessings.
The main part of the Mass is the Eucharist, which is like a sacred meal. Catholics believe that the bread and wine become the body and blood of Jesus during this ceremony.
The Mass is split into two sections:
1- Hearing God’s Word:
This part involves listening to readings from the Bible and a talk from the priest explaining the readings.
2- Sharing the Meal:
In the second part, the bread and wine are offered and prayed over, then people can receive them during communion.
The word “Mass” actually comes from the last part of the service, where everyone is blessed and sent out to spread the good word
Is Walmart open on Easter? Store hours; who is open and closed?
Major retailers and grocery stores in UK such as Target, Lowe’s, T.J. Maxx, Marshall’s, Kohl’s, Publix and Aldi are closed on Easter (March 31).
One major exception to the closures is Walmart. Walmart stores around the country will open regular hours on Easter Sunday. For Supercenters, hours are generally 6 a.m.-11 p.m. Walmart-owned Sam’s Club will be closed, however.
Other major retailers that are open include Home Depot, Pet Smart, Big Lots, CVS, Walgreens, Dollar General, Kroger, Trader Joe’s and Whole Foods.
The following major retailers are closed on Easter Sunday. If your favorite store is open, check ahead to make sure they are on regular hours.
Aldi – Closed
Best Buy – Closed
Costco – Closed
Dick’s Sporting Goods – Closed
HomeGoods – Closed
Kohl’s – Closed
Marshall’s – Closed
Michael’s – Closed
Publix – Closed
Sam’s Club -Closed
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What Easter means?
A: Easter is a Christian holiday celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, according to the Bible. It signifies triumph over death and the promise of eternal life.
Q: Why is Easter so early in 2024?
A: Easter doesn’t have a fixed date. It’s determined by the lunar calendar and falls on the first Sunday after the first full moon following the spring equinox (around March 21st). So, it can bounce around between late March and April. In 2024, the full moon happened early, making Easter a bit earlier.
Q: Why is Easter about eggs?
Eggs are symbols of new life and rebirth, which aligns with the Easter story of Jesus’ resurrection. They’ve been decorated and used in Easter celebrations for centuries.
Q: Why do we celebrate Easter?
A: Christians celebrate Easter to commemorate Jesus’ resurrection, considered a core belief of Christianity. It signifies hope, new beginnings, and God’s love for humanity.
Q: Why is it called Good Friday?
A: Though Jesus’ crucifixion is a sad event, “Good” refers to the good that came from his sacrifice – the potential for salvation.
Q: How long is Lent?
A: Lent is the 40-day period of fasting, prayer, and reflection leading up to Easter Sunday.
Q: Do Catholics celebrate Easter?
Yes, absolutely! Easter is one of the most important holidays in Catholicism. They celebrate the Easter Vigil and Easter Sunday with special church services.
Conclusion
As Easter approaches, let embrace the spirit of joy, renewal, and hope that this special occasion brings. Whether gather around delicious feasts with loved ones or partake in cherished customs and traditions, let remember the true meaning of Easter: a celebration of new beginnings and the promise of brighter days ahead. May this Easter season fill hearts with gratitude, homes with warmth, and spirits with a sense of peace and contentment.
