Discover the Rich Traditions and Customs of Czech Easter Celebrations!

Holy Week and Customs

The week leading up to Easter is known as Holy Week. It kicks off with the significant day for Christians, Ash Wednesday, a time to reflect on Judas’ betrayal and his ill deed. The term “ash” is rooted in the tradition of sweeping ashes from the chimney on this day. While it’s meant as a day of cleaning, there’s a lighthearted superstition that warns against frowning too much; doing so could mean enduring a grumpy face every Wednesday throughout the year. On Green Thursday, it’s customary to indulge in some spinach, cabbage, or nettle salad, believed to promote good health for the rest of the year, according to Easter folklore. During Thursday’s church mass, the bells toll for the last time before departing to Rome. As we observe Good Friday, the pleasant sounds of bells are substituted with the noise of various rattles or clappers, which can be small or large and often attached to wheelbarrows. This solemn day is dedicated to mourning Jesus’ death and observing a strict fast. Following this, Holy Saturday arrives as a day marked by silence and anticipation, but it also involves cleaning and whitewashing in preparations for Easter Sunday. Households ensure to set the table with festive items such as Easter stuffing, a ram cake or cross bun, and Judas buns. Sunday is vibrant with celebratory spirit as churches and cathedrals fill to capacity, where the faithful gather to commemorate Christ’s resurrection. And then comes Monday! What does Monday have in store? It’s a day filled with lively folk traditions!

Painted Eggs

Among the most recognized symbols of Easter, particularly in the Czech Republic, are the painted eggs. Historically, these eggs signified fertility and new beginnings, but nowadays they are primarily used for decorative purposes. Families decorate empty eggshells in ways that reflect their regional or family traditions. The styles of decoration are diverse: you can find eggs that are painted, carved, dyed using onion skin and other natural colors, etched, wired, or even decorated with wax or pierced. A very traditional method involves using straw; eggs are first dyed and then adorned with tiny pieces of prepared straw glued onto the surface. You can discover beautiful crafting instructions here. Some of these eggs resemble true works of art and their crafting process can take several days—despite their delicate nature!

The Whip

The Czech tradition of whipping girls and women with a handmade whip has persisted for centuries. The earliest documented mentions of this practice trace back to the 14th century, but the origins likely extend far beyond that, dating back to pre-Christian times. Boys and men used to gently whip girls with willow branches as a way to promote their health and vitality. Over time, these branches were braided, evolving into long and intricately crafted whips, which became a source of pride for their owners. Today, some whips can reach impressive lengths, although such lengthy versions are typically retained for decorative purposes. In the Czech Republic, the tradition of whipping still continues, though it is gradually fading in urban areas. Traditionally, boys and men traverse their neighborhoods with their whips, seeking a reward in exchange. They often receive painted eggs, colorful ribbons for their whips, sweets, or even something strong. This whipping custom holds a special place, especially in Moravia, where home-brewed brandy is cherished.

Where to Experience the Tradition

Many Czech open-air museums endeavor to preserve local folk traditions. One of the most celebrated events is Easter in Wallachia, hosted at the open-air museum in Rožnov pod Radhoštěm, located in Moravia. Another museum that preserves these traditional Easter customs can be found at Veselý Kopec in East Bohemia. Almost all historic structures are festively adorned, and visitors are welcomed with warmth. Museum staff dressed in traditional costumes share insights about folk customs, many of which have been lost to time. Guests often have the opportunity to create a small souvenir to bring home.

• Moravia – Easter in Wallachia – Wallachian Open-Air Museum in Rožnov (4th–6th April)
• Central Bohemia – Easter Time at the Museum of Folk Buildings in Kouřim (14th March–12th April), main programme (4th-5th April)
• Central Bohemia – Přerov nad Labem – Spring in the Village (14th March–19th April)
• Vysočina – Easter at Veselý Kopec (3rd–6th April)
• Vysočina – Betlém Hlinsko – Easter at Betlém (14th March–12th April)
• North Bohemia – Zubrnice – Easter in the Village (28th–29th March)

A Spiritual Dimension

The spiritual aspect of Easter holds significant importance in the Catholic tradition within the Czech Republic. This is observed at various pilgrimage sites, such as the Holy Mountain in Příbram, located in Central Bohemia, the Roman Catholic parish in Velehrad in Moravia, and the Zelená hora near Žďár nad Sázavou, which proudly stands on the UNESCO World Heritage list.