Ostern

Ostern, or Easter, is a festival in the Christian calendar commemorating the resurrection of Jesus Christ. In German-speaking regions it is observed by many Christian communities in Germany, Austria, Switzerland and parts of Liechtenstein and Luxembourg, and it also has broad secular and cultural dimensions. The holiday often marks the end of the Lenten season and the arrival of spring.

Date and observance: Ostern is a moveable feast. Easter Sunday falls on the first Sunday after the first full moon following the vernal equinox, placing it roughly between March 22 and April 25. The period includes Holy Week, with Maundy Thursday and Good Friday, and in many countries Easter Monday is a public holiday.

Traditions: Religious services, bells, and processions are common. Families decorate and exchange eggs, and Easter egg hunts are a widespread activity for children. The Easter Bunny, or Osterhase, is a popular folkloric figure associated with delivering eggs. Eggs may be painted, dyed or made of chocolate, and gifts or sweets are often exchanged.

Folk customs and foods: In parts of northern and central Germany, Easter fires (Osterfeuer) are lit to welcome spring. The Easter tree (Osterbaum) or Easter wreaths are used as decorations. Traditional foods vary by region and can include lamb dishes or lamb-shaped cakes and sweet breads (Osterbrot).

Origins and naming: The religious celebration stems from Christian belief in the resurrection, while some customs echo pre-Christian spring festivals. The name Ostern is sometimes linked to older springtime traditions and, in popular lore, to the goddess Ostara or Eostre.