Easter in Cyprus: A celebration of family, faith, and fun

From the solemn processions of Holy Week to the joyful revelry of Easter Sunday, Cyprus offers a unique and colorful experience for those looking to celebrate this important holiday. With traditions like church-going, egg-cracking battles, souvla roasting, and folk music performances, it's a time to indulge in delicious food, embrace family and friends, and honor the deep cultural heritage of the island.

Easter is one of the most important holidays in Cyprus, a time for both religious and cultural celebrations that bring together families and friends in joyous festivities. From the solemn observances of Holy Week to the colorful traditions of Easter Sunday, there is a lot to experience and enjoy during this special time.

One of the most significant aspects of Easter in Cyprus is church-going. The faithful attend services throughout Holy Week, culminating in the solemn processions of Good Friday, where they carry icons and candles through the streets to commemorate the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. On Easter Sunday, the churches are once again packed with worshippers, celebrating the resurrection of Christ and sharing the message of hope and renewal that this holiday represents.

The spiritual moment of people in the church receiving the holy light during Easter in Cyprus.

But Easter in Cyprus is not just about church-going – it's also a time for food, drink, and socializing. The traditional Easter meal in Cyprus is centered around souvla, a delicious dish made of succulent pieces of lamb or pork grilled on a spit over an open flame. Friends and family gather around the souvla, enjoying the aromas and the lively atmosphere as they drink wine or beer and chat with one another.

Another beloved tradition during Easter in Cyprus is egg-cracking battles. This unique and fun game involves two players each holding a colored egg, with one player tapping the other's egg until one of them cracks. The winner is the one with the unbroken egg, and it's a playful way to celebrate the season of renewal and new beginnings.

Music is also an important part of Easter celebrations in Cyprus, with traditional folk songs and dances performed throughout the holiday. Many villages organize their own festivities, featuring live music, dancing, and plenty of food and drink. It's a great opportunity to experience the local culture and to meet new people, and you'll find that everyone is eager to welcome you into the festivities.

The delicious and traditional Cypriot pastries called flaounes, which are made during the Easter season.

Of course, no celebration in Cyprus is complete without a shot of zivania, the local firewater that packs a punch. You might hear people saying "stin ygeia sas" – "to your health" – as they raise a glass of zivania in a toast. It's a perfect way to cap off a day of eating, drinking, and merrymaking, and to connect with the friendly and welcoming people of Cyprus.

It's worth noting that the date of Easter Sunday changes each year, as it is based on a lunar calendar. In 2023, Easter Sunday falls on April 16th.

So, there you have it - Easter in Cyprus is a time to celebrate the joys of life and to connect with family, friends, and faith. Whether you attend church services, enjoy a delicious meal of souvla, participate in egg-cracking battles, dance to traditional music, or simply soak up the atmosphere, there's something for everyone during this special holiday. So come and experience Easter in Cyprus for yourself! And if you're feeling brave, why not try your hand at some traditional Cypriot dancing? Just be warned, the locals might try to recruit you for their village dance troupe!