Osterfest

Osterfest is the festival celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ, the central holiday of the Christian liturgical year in many denominations, especially in German-speaking countries. It marks the culmination of Holy Week and the Paschal Triduum. The date is determined by the ecclesiastical approximation of the lunar cycle, so Easter falls on the first Sunday after the first full moon occurring on or after the vernal equinox; as a result, it varies from year to year, typically between March 22 and April 25.

The term Osterfest derives from the German word for Easter and emphasizes the festive aspect of the holiday. The festival has historical roots in both the Jewish Passover and pre-Christian spring rites, later integrating into early Christian worship. Over centuries, regional customs and traditions developed around the core observance of Easter.

Common customs and symbols include church services on Easter Sunday and, in many communities, an Easter Vigil on the eve. Central motifs are the empty tomb and spring imagery, with widespread traditions such as decorating and exchanging eggs, egg hunts, and the Easter Bunny. In various regions of Germany, Austria, and Switzerland there are additional practices such as Easter fires (Osterfeuer) and family meals featuring seasonal dishes.

Modern Osterfest is observed as a public or semi-public holiday in many areas, often extending into a long weekend. Practices vary by region and denomination, with both religious observance and secular celebration emphasizing spring, renewal, and family time.