Easter is one of the most significant holidays on the Christian calendar; it celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, as described in the New Testament of the Bible. Celebrated on a Sunday between March 22 and April 25, the date of Easter varies each year based on the lunar calendar—specifically the first Sunday after the first full moon which follows the spring equinox.
“The bodily Resurrection of Jesus Christ is the essential Christian belief. If Jesus Christ is not raised from the dead, then nothing else in the Christian Faith tradition matters. This is the most important Christian holiday. Christmas usually receives more attention. While it is an important holiday, historically Easter is more central. The entire annual worship cycle is focused on the preparation and celebration of Easter,” priest Keith Frase said.
The origins of Easter are rooted in the Christian faith. In Christian tradition, Jesus was crucified on Good Friday and rose from the dead on the third day: Easter Sunday. This event is seen as the cornerstone of Christianity, which symbolizes victory over sin and death, and the promise of eternal life. Easter also has connections to older springtime festivals which celebrated rebirth and renewal, which is why numerous Easter customs include symbols of fertility and new life, such as eggs and rabbits.
“I celebrate Easter because it means I’m saved. I’m a Christian, so I believed on good Friday when Jesus died on the cross, he paid the debt for my sin. He rose from the grave and conquered death, proving God is living and we’re offered a new life,” Megan Westbrook ‘27 said.
Around the world, Easter traditions vary but often include special church services, Easter decorating eggs, the fairytale of the Easter Bunny and festive family meals. In Italy, people celebrate with grand religious processions, while in Greece, Orthodox Christians enjoy midnight services and fireworks. In the United States, families participate in Easter egg hunts and parades.
“I celebrate Easter by going to church, then getting together with my family and have dinner, praying and thanking God for everything he’s done for us. I also decorated Easter eggs and do an Easter egg hunt,” Hannah Mayle ‘26 said.
Beyond its religious roots, Easter is a celebration of hope, renewal and the arrival of spring. Easter is a time to reflect on personal growth, second chances and the beauty of life’s cycles. The season encourages a fresh start, both on a spiritual and emotional level, as nature awakens from the stillness of winter. Trees begin to bud; flowers bloom and longer days bring warmth and light which reflects the themes of rebirth which Easter represents. Whether observed through quiet moments of gratitude, acts of kindness or time spent with loved ones, Easter offers an opportunity to reconnect with what matters to each person. It reminds people which after hardship or loss, new beginnings are always possible and joy can return, just as spring always follows winter.
