Discover the Rich Traditions and Festivities of Czech Easter Celebrations!

Holy Week and its Customs

The week leading up to Easter is known as Holy Week, a significant period for Christians around the globe. It begins with Ash Wednesday, a day that marks the betrayal of Jesus by Judas. The term “ash” originates from the tradition of collecting ashes from the chimney on this day, serving as a symbolic cleansing. However, don’t let it stress you out, as there’s a superstition that frowning on this day could lead to recurring grumpiness every Wednesday for the rest of the year! To maintain good health throughout the year, it’s advised to enjoy a salad made of spinach, cabbage, or nettles on Green Thursday. During the Thursday mass, church bells only ring once more before they set off to Rome. On Good Friday, the joyful chimes are replaced by the sound of rattles and clappers of various sizes, which are often attached to wheelbarrows. This day serves as a time of mourning for Jesus’ crucifixion, marked by a day of strict fasting.

Following Good Friday, Holy Saturday is characterized by a sense of hush and anticipation. This day is also dedicated to cleaning and whitewashing as families busily prepare for Easter Sunday. Every home is expected to have a beautifully set table adorned with Easter stuffing, a ram cake or a cross bun, and Judas buns. The celebration culminates on Sunday when churches and cathedrals become filled with worshippers coming together to honor Christ’s resurrection. And what about the following Monday? That day is reserved for rich folk traditions! What fascinating customs await us then?

Decorative Eggs

One of the most iconic symbols of Easter, especially in the Czech Republic, is the painted egg. Historically, these eggs served as representations of fertility and new beginnings. Nowadays, however, they are primarily crafted for decoration purposes. Each family or region has its own unique methods of adorning empty eggshells. The variety of designs is truly impressive. You can encounter eggs that are painted, intricately carved, dyed in natural colors such as onion peel, as well as eggs that are etched, wired, decorated with wax, or even perforated. One very traditional decorating technique involves using straw: eggs are initially dyed and then tiny pieces of straw are delicately glued to the shell. For those interested in a DIY approach, you can find excellent tutorials here. Some eggs resemble exquisite works of art, and the creation of these decorative pieces can take several days. Despite their beauty, they remain incredibly delicate!

The Whip Tradition

A unique custom observed during Easter in the Czech Republic involves the tradition of whipping girls and women with a handmade whip. This practice has been a part of Czech culture for hundreds of years, with the earliest documented references appearing in the 14th century, although its origins likely extend back to pre-Christian times. Historically, boys and men used to gently whip girls with willow branches as a way to promote health and vitality. Over time, these branches evolved into intricately braided whips, with some becoming quite lengthy and elaborate, showcasing the skill of their owners. Today, many of these whips are purely ornamental. While boys and men still partake in the whipping tradition, its prominence is gradually waning in urban areas. Traditionally, it involves boys and men taking to their neighborhoods with the whip in hand, asking for a reward in return for their efforts. They may receive a decorated egg, a colorful ribbon for their whip, something sweet, or even a strong drink. In the regions of Moravia, the tradition especially thrives, where the enjoyment of homemade brandy is common.

Where to Experience These Traditions

In the Czech Republic, numerous open-air museums work diligently to preserve the country’s rich folk traditions. One of the most noteworthy events is Easter in Wallachia, held at the Wallachian Open-Air Museum in Rožnov pod Radhoštěm, located in the picturesque region of Moravia. Another exceptional venue for traditional Easter celebrations is Veselý Kopec in East Bohemia. Visitors can expect beautifully decorated historical buildings, and they are welcomed with open arms. Employees of the open-air museums don traditional attire and share stories about long-forgotten folk customs. Often, there’s also the opportunity to craft a small souvenir to take home as a memento.

• Moravia – Easter in Wallachia – Wallachian Open-Air Museum in Rožnov (19th–21st April)
• Central Bohemia – Easter Time at the Museum of Folk Buildings in Kouřim (29th March–27th April)
• Central Bohemia – Přerov nad Labem – Spring in the Village (21st March–30th April)
• Vysočina – Easter at Veselý Kopec (18th–21st April)
• Vysočina – Betlém Hlinsko – Easter at Betlém (1st–27th April)
• North Bohemia – Zubrnice – Easter in the Village (12th–13th April)

The Spiritual Aspect of Easter

The spiritual aspect of Easter holds significant meaning within the Catholic community in the Czech Republic. Many pilgrimage sites commemorate this sacred time, including notable locations like the Holy Mountain in Příbram, situated in Central Bohemia. Other revered sites include the Roman Catholic parish in Velehrad in Moravia, and the famous Zelená hora near Žďár nad Sázavou, which proudly holds a place on the UNESCO World Heritage List.