The historic country of Germany bears true witness to the ancient civilizations since the prehistoric times dating back to the Nordic Bronze Age. Thus, the festivals of Germany are deep rooted according to various Christian religious beliefs. Easter in Germany begins by Germans attending the Mass prayer services on Saturday which continues so till Sunday.
German Easter celebrations are also known as Ostern which is the second most important holiday in Germany. In addition to its religious significance the event also symbolizes the advent of spring. The government offices, business establishments and schools in different parts of Germany remain close for 4 days beginning from Good Friday also known as Karfreitag and ending on Easter Monday (Ostermontag).
Just like other countries, Easter traditions in Germany is associated with Gründonnerstag or Maundy Thursday when the Germans traditionally eat green vegetables such as 'Seven-Herb Soup' with spinach, parsley, leek, chives, dandelion and sorrel. While the night before Easter Friday known as Karfreitag or "Sorrowful Friday people eat fish for dinner with their family. One of the major highlights of Easter festive activities in Germany is the Easter bunny called Osterhase which is one of many traditions that originated in Germany. Also Easter tree (Osterstrauch) and Easter Bonfire (Osterfeuer) are the very basic customs that typify a particular German Easter.
The Easter trees in Germany are beautifully decorated with hollowed eggs, dyed and hung with colorful ribbon throughout the Holy Week. Further more on the eve of Easter Sunday, many local communities light big bonfires across the country to welcome the bountiful season of spring and bid goodbye to winter. The actual day of German Easter celebrations is Easter Sunday, hence traditional German meals as 'Eier in gruener Sosse', 'Eier in Senfsosse' and 'Hackbraten' recipes are prepared and feasted by the whole family. During this festive occasion people usually prefer to spend some quality time with their family and close friends therefore majority of the Germans and even outsiders flock to the popular Easter destinations like the majestic city of Cologne, view the splendid castles situated in midst of the Rhine River and the pleasant harbor city of Hamburg.
So, here's wishing all the readers Frohe Ostern! Ein frohes Osterfest! ---- Happy Easter!
Christmas Carnivals shares with you relevant details on Easter in Germany.
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