The Traditions
of Easter
Easter is surrounded by rich traditions that bring the Christian faith to life each spring. While Easter is rich with customs both ancient and modern, at its core it remains a celebration of God’s love and victory over death. Each tradition, whether solemn or joyful, points back to the heart of the Easter message: forgiveness, hope, and new life.
Typical Traditions of Easter
Good Friday: Remembering the Cross
Good Friday is one of the most solemn days in the Christian calendar, marking the crucifixion of Jesus. Churches hold reflective services focusing on the passion, suffering, and sacrifice of Christ. Many believers take time for prayer, silence, and contemplation, remembering the weight of the cross and the depth of God’s love displayed on that dark afternoon.
Easter Vigil and Midnight Mass
In some traditions, especially within Catholic and Orthodox communities, Easter begins with a powerful midnight service known as the Easter Vigil or Midnight Mass. This candlelit gathering often starts in darkness, gradually filling with light to symbolize the resurrection. Worshipers celebrate the triumph of Christ over death, welcoming Easter morning with songs of joy and hope.
Easter Sunday: Celebration and Joy
Easter Sunday is the high point of the Christian year, celebrating Jesus’ resurrection. Churches overflow with joyful services, often featuring special music, flower-filled altars, and the triumphant declaration: “Christ is risen! He is risen indeed!” Families and communities gather, sharing meals and marking the day with gratitude and renewed faith.
Passion Plays: Bringing the Story to Life
Passion Plays are dramatic outdoor re-enactments of Jesus’ final days, capturing the hearts of audiences across the world. These live performances — supported by organizations like the Passion Trust — vividly portray the events leading up to Easter, offering a unique and powerful way to experience the Easter story. To learn more about productions near you, visit Passion Plays in the UK.
Family and Cultural Traditions
Beyond church services, Easter is filled with family and cultural traditions that celebrate new life and renewal. Decorating Easter eggs, organizing egg hunts, and sharing festive meals are common in many cultures. Symbols like lambs, lilies, and butterflies all echo the themes of rebirth and resurrection, reminding people of the beauty and hope that Easter brings.
The Heart Behind the Traditions
While Easter is rich with customs both ancient and modern, at its core it remains a celebration of God’s love and victory over death. Each tradition, whether solemn or joyful, points back to the heart of the Easter message: that through Jesus’ death and resurrection, all are offered forgiveness, hope, and new life.
Passion Plays in the UK
Passion plays are dramatic re-enactments of the final days of Jesus’ life — his arrest, trial, crucifixion, and resurrection — bringing the Easter story vividly to life. Across towns and cities, these powerful open-air performances invite audiences to experience the heart of the Christian message in a unique and memorable way. The Passion Trust supports and equips local communities to stage these productions, helping to share the story of Easter with new generations. To explore upcoming performances or get involved, visit Passion Plays in the UK.
Passion Plays have been taking place for decades, below are just some of the Passion Plays that have taken place across the UK. For an up-to-date list and look at what’s coming up for the next Easter season, visit the Passion Plays website, specifically the ‘where can I find a Passion Play‘ section.
