Pääsiäisessä

Pääsiäisessä, also known as Easter in English, is a major Christian festival celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, according to the New Testament. It is one of the oldest and most widely observed holidays in the Christian tradition and is considered a moveable feast, meaning its date varies each year within the range of March 22 and April 25, based on the lunar calendar. The date is determined by the first full moon following the spring equinox, which typically falls on March 21.

Pääsiäisessä is observed over several days, beginning with Holy Week, which includes Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and Holy Saturday. The central event of the holiday is Easter Sunday, which commemorates the resurrection of Jesus. In many Christian traditions, Easter is celebrated with church services, special meals, and family gatherings. Common symbols associated with Easter include eggs, rabbits, and lambs, which have roots in both Christian and pre-Christian traditions.

In Finland, Easter, or *pääsiäinen*, is a significant cultural and religious holiday. The week leading up to Easter is filled with various customs and traditions. Palm Sunday (*suklaapalmunpäivä*) is often marked by the blessing of palm branches or other greenery, though in colder climates, willow branches are sometimes used. Maundy Thursday (*pesupäivä*) is traditionally associated with the washing of feet, symbolizing humility and service, and many churches hold special services.

Good Friday (*pitkäperjantai*) is a day of fasting and reflection, often marked by church services and processions. Easter Sunday (*pääsiäispäivä*) is celebrated with joyous church services, and families gather for meals featuring traditional dishes such as hot cross buns, lamb, and Easter eggs. The Monday following Easter, known as Easter Monday (*pääsiäismaanantai*), is also a public holiday in Finland and is often celebrated with outdoor activities and family visits.

Pääsiäisessä is also a time for many Finns to spend time outdoors, enjoying the arrival of spring. The holiday is deeply embedded in Finnish culture, blending religious observance with seasonal celebrations and family traditions.