Easter Sunday

Easter Sunday in Lithuania, known as *Velykos*, is one of the most significant and cherished religious holidays in the country, deeply rooted in Christian traditions and ancient pagan customs. Celebrated on the first Sunday after the first full moon following the spring equinox, it marks the resurrection of Jesus Christ and the arrival of spring, symbolizing renewal and hope. Lithuanians prepare for Easter with a week of solemn observances, including Palm Sunday and Holy Week, culminating in Easter Sunday. On this day, families attend church services, where Easter baskets filled with traditional foods like painted eggs (*margučiai*), bread, ham, and cheese are blessed. These foods are then shared during a festive family meal. A unique Lithuanian Easter tradition is the decoration of eggs using wax-resist or scratching techniques, creating intricate patterns. Another beloved custom is the Easter egg rolling game, where children compete to see whose egg rolls the farthest. Easter Sunday is also a time for family gatherings, feasting, and celebrating the arrival of spring. It is a joyful occasion that blends religious devotion with cultural heritage, making it a special and meaningful holiday for Lithuanians.