Written by Chara Lica from Romania

In Romania, Easter is much more than a religious holiday. It is a shared experience that brings families and generations together. For Orthodox Christians, Easter celebrates the Resurrection of Jesus Christ, the moment when life triumphed over death. It is considered the most important celebration in the Christian calendar. Preparation starts at the beginning of Lent, a 40-day period of fasting and reflection, and reaches its peak during Holy Week. Each day of this week has its own special meaning. Good Friday is particularly significant, it is the day when Christians remember the suffering and crucifixion of Christ. On this day, people fast strictly and visit their local church to pass beneath the Holy Epitaph, a cloth representing the burial of Christ, as a gesture of humility and spiritual renewal.

 At midnight, Orthodox churches fill with people holding candles, waiting for the moment of the Resurrection. The priest comes out from the altar and announces: «Come, receive the light!» The flame is passed from candle to candle until the darkness is replaced by a warm sea of light. At that moment, everyone sings «Christ is risen!» and this phrase becomes the traditional Christian greeting used all the way until Ascension Day, 40 days later. The response, «Truly, He is risen!», is a simple but powerful expression of faith.

This midnight service is not just a religious ceremony. It is also a moment of deep connection between people and God, and between people themselves. Afterward, everyone walks home trying to keep their candle lit for as long as possible, as a symbol of faith and hope.After 40 days of fasting, Easter Sunday is a time of celebration and togetherness. Families gather around the table, share traditional food, and pass on customs from one generation to the next. A popular tradition is knocking red eggs together while saying «Christ is risen!», the red colour symbolises the blood of Christ, and the egg represents new life.

 The Easter meal in Romania includes several traditional dishes:

● Lamb soup and roast lamb

● Drob de miel – a baked dish made with lamb offal, herbs, and eggs

● Red eggs – a symbol of sacrifice and renewal

● Cozonac – a soft, sweet bread filled with walnuts, cocoa, or Turkish delight

● Pască – a sweet baked cheesecake with raisins, often decorated with a cross

Easter in Romania is a celebration where faith and tradition come together in a meaningful way. It is not only about religious rituals, it is also about family, community, and keeping alive the customs of the past.From the quiet reflection of Good Friday to the joy of the Easter table on Sunday morning, Romania offers a truly unique way of experiencing this holiday. If you would like to see it for yourself, come to Romania at Easter and take part in a tradition full of light, warmth, and gratitude.