Easter Sunday

Easter Sunday in Romania, known as "Paștele," is one of the most significant and cherished religious holidays in the country, celebrated with deep spiritual meaning and rich traditions. It marks the resurrection of Jesus Christ, as observed by the Eastern Orthodox Church, which the majority of Romanians follow. The date of Easter in Romania often differs from Western Easter due to the use of the Julian calendar for religious calculations. Preparations for Easter begin weeks in advance, with fasting during Lent, cleaning homes, and baking traditional foods. On Easter Sunday, Romanians attend midnight church services, where they participate in the "Light of Resurrection" ceremony, symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness. People carry lit candles home, believed to bring blessings and protection. A central element of the celebration is the festive meal, which includes dishes such as "drob" (a lamb organ meatloaf), "pască" (a sweet cheese bread), and painted eggs, especially red ones, symbolizing Christ's blood and new life. Families and friends gather to share the meal, exchange greetings of "Hristos a înviat!" ("Christ has risen!") and respond with "Adevărat a înviat!" ("Indeed, He has risen!"). Easter in Romania is a time of joy, renewal, and togetherness, blending religious devotion with cultural traditions that have been passed down through generations.