Easter Sunday 2025

Description

Easter Sunday in Greece is the most important religious holiday for Greek Orthodox Christians. It marks the central event of their faith, the belief that Jesus rose from the dead, showing victory over death and the promise of new life.

The date of Easter changes every year. It is set by the Orthodox church using the spring equinox and the first full moon after it. Because of different calendars, Greek Easter often falls later than Western Easter and usually comes in April or May.

For Greeks, Easter Sunday is deeply meaningful. It is a time to remember faith, hope, and renewal. The celebration brings families and communities together and strengthens a sense of cultural and spiritual identity.

Easter is also tied to the wider church year. It marks the end of a period of reflection and prepares people for living with renewed purpose, compassion, and shared belief in the resurrection.

Traditions

On Easter Sunday families wake early after the midnight church service. People carry a lit candle from the Holy Light into their homes. Bells ring and often there are loud fireworks and church processions in town squares.

Homes fill with smells of roast lamb cooked on a spit. People eat tsoureki sweet bread and red dyed eggs. Everyone cracks eggs together in a game to see whose egg stays unbroken.

Families and friends share big meals and visit neighbors. Children run around with decorated eggs. Many people greet each other with the traditional phrase and exchange hugs and wishes throughout the day.

Travel Tips

Many shops, banks and some museums close or have short hours on Easter Sunday. Ferries, buses and trains are very busy. Book tickets and restaurants early and expect delays around noon and evening travel times.

Join public events with respect and stay safe. Crowds gather near churches and town centers so watch your belongings. Avoid driving late where candles or fireworks are used. Carry ID, water and a charged phone for emergencies.