Growing up in the greater Philadelphia area, my siblings and I always looked forward to Easter—especially the elaborate baskets from our grandparents, who lived just outside New York City. Wrapped in colorful cellophane, each basket was filled with chocolates, jellybeans and little surprises. It wasn’t just the treats we loved, but the excitement and love they brought with them every year.

Now, as I help lead an international non-profit partnering with faith communities and humanitarian organizations across Eastern Europe, I’ve discovered a rich blend of Easter traditions, both old and new, that reflect the region’s deep historical roots—many of which have genuinely surprised me!

Faith & spiritual significance

He is not here; He has risen.

The foundation of Easter lies in the biblical resurrection story of Jesus Christ, as proclaimed in Matthew 28:6: "He is not here; He has risen, just as He said!" Much like Lent for many of us, churches in Ukraine, Croatia, Russia and Hungary take up a period of fasting and spiritual reflection before Easter Sunday. Holy Week is marked by deep devotion, with church services and community gatherings uniting Christians in Eastern Europe.

Special prayers and liturgies further enrich the spiritual atmosphere—transcending various denominations, styles and cultures. In Transylvania, Saxon communities gather for evening prayer, while Croatian church ceremonies embody centuries-old traditions of worship and reverence that might feel familiar to many of us, including bell ringing on Easter morning and eating fish in lieu of meat.

Likewise, as church groups in Hungary gather to sing songs and pray amid Holy Week ("Nagyhét"), those in Ukraine gather together for silent prayer while baking to honor Holy Thursday and Saturday. These sacred observances remind Christians of the sacrifices made by Christ and the subsequent promise of salvation.

Traditional Easter foods

Food plays a vital role in Easter celebrations throughout Eastern Europe, with a number of dishes carrying profound symbolism. Easter breakfast feasts in Poland, Ukraine, Croatia, Russia and Transylvania feature blessed foods that represent Christ’s sacrifice and resurrection. Traditional Easter breads—"Osterbrots"—from this region hold particular significance:

• Paska (Ukraine, Russia) - symbolizing heavenly bread/the promise of eternal life
• Cozonac (Romania) - with raisins and nuts, representing abundance and joy
• Pasca (Hungary) - raisin bread, symbolizing the sweetness of redemption

Blessings of meat and eggs are also common in Poland, Hungary and Transylvania, reinforcing the idea of renewal and divine provision. In Transylvania, the meal’s eggs are dyed red with beet juice, symbolizing the blood of Christ.

Easter meals often feature lamb as well, a picture of the sacrificial lamb on atonement day. Ham and "sarmale", a beloved stuffed cabbage dish, are served in Hungary, Romania and Transylvania, further emphasizing themes of sacrifice and celebration.

Easter egg traditions  

Much like the West, eggs are among the most recognizable symbols of Easter, signifying new life—a theme embraced by Christians through the resurrection. The intricate folk art of egg decorating, seen in "pysanky" (Ukraine), "pisanki" (Poland) and "pisanice" (Croatia, Hungary), is a cherished tradition passed down through generations. These beautifully adorned eggs serve as a testament to faith and cultural identity.

Egg competitions also bring joy and play for young people at Easter gatherings across Eastern Europe, including egg hunts, runs and dances.

In Poland, Ukraine and Russia, egg fights and egg rolling contests—in which eggs are rolled down a hill and caught by those below—add a playful element to the day.

Like Transylvania, Hungary holds the tradition of a red egg; this decorative egg, given as an Easter gift, closely ties this holiday to the church, symbolizing Christ rising from the grave.

Common community celebrations & unique local practices

Family and neighborhood gatherings remain at the heart of Easter, where storytelling and the blending of cultural influences create lasting memories. The tradition of water “sprinkling,” practiced in Hungary and Transylvania, while rooted in the concept of baptism pointing to purification and fruitfulness, also offers fun lore among the young men and women. 

Easter markets and fairs, particularly those in Austria and Transylvania, display local crafts, food and decorations, creating a festive atmosphere that draws families and neighbors together. 

Beyond the commonalities, each Eastern European region boasts distinct Easter customs that highlight their unique heritage.

In Hungary, the silencing of church bells symbolizes their "journey to Rome," while farmers shake fruit trees to ensure a bountiful harvest. 

The burning or drowning of straw figures in Hungary marks the end of winter and fasting, a dramatic expression of seasonal renewal.

Slovakia observes the playful yet symbolic Easter whipping, known as "suprikálás," where boys gently tap girls with willow branches as a blessing for health.

In Russia, the custom of kissing three times after Easter greetings fosters a sense of warmth and unity among loved ones.

Celebrating Easter with our Eastern European neighbors

Eastern European Christians reaffirm their faith and pass down a rich heritage of devotion and joy to future generations.

Easter across Eastern Europe is a powerful blend of faith, tradition, and celebration that not only honor Christ’s resurrection but also reinforce the communal and spiritual ties that define this holy season. By embracing these practices, Eastern European Christians reaffirm their faith and pass down a rich heritage of devotion and joy to future generations.

What can we take away from this? Perhaps it’s the invitation to step outside our comfort zones and learn more about this region of the world. Despite cultural differences, Eastern Europeans share many of the same Easter joys with us: the reverence of Resurrection Day, the excitement of Easter egg hunts, the tradition of gathering around the table with family for a meal and united prayers for others around the globe.

Dirk Smith is Vice President of EEM (Eastern European Mission), which has been providing Bibles to the people of Eastern Europe since 1961, now reaching 32 countries in 26 languages. They provided 2 million Bibles and Bible-based materials free of charge in 2024, including in Eastern Europe and its surrounding regions. Learn more at www.eem.org.