Catholic and Orthodox Easter Customs and Traditions

Despite some of cultural differences that exist between Catholics and Orthodox Christians, Easter is one of the most important holidays in both religions. Although dates and traditions of the celebration might differ, in both cases Easter does not have a fixed date and is a movable feast. Originally the holiday was established on the date of the first Sunday after the fool moon following the March equinox. And this year Catholics celebrate Easter on March 31st while Orthodox Christians will have the celebration on May 5th. 

Customs and traditions are varied, despite the common attitude to the holiday. According to the Catholic legend colored eggs are brought to children along with some candies and sometimes toys by the Easter Bunny before the respective holiday. Later different traditional Easter games and customs appeared, such as Easter egg roll, egg tapping, and egg decorating.

Games and traditions mentioned above did not spread in Ukraine. During the Easter holiday religious Ukrainians go to the church for the blessing and afterwards people visit each other’s homes bringing fruit baskets or food baskets as a gift to the hosts along with traditional Christian Easter bakery - Pascha. Usually it is one family going to visit another or close friends as Easter is a kind and loving family spring holiday. Children are granted with chocolate gifts or sweets. Another important attribute of this holiday is of course Easter eggs which are colored brightly specifically for the holiday. This tradition is common for both cultures. 

If it happened so that you are going to be miles away from your close and beloved person on this lovely and festive holiday you can still send them a part of your love throughout the distance. You can send your loved ones a gorgeous gourmet basket or a fruit basket to share your love and care as a gift to Ukraine. If your close person has a child, a younger sister or brother it would be very nice of you to remember about little family member by sending them a box of chocolates and a toy. A spring bouquet of beautiful Ukraine flowers will brighten the day of your beloved one and will be a nice decoration on this holly day.

Let the people who mean the most to you feel your care and love. Express your warm feelings and make your special people happier on the wonderful and lovely Easter day.