Easter is a staple in the Greek-Orthodox Religion, and in depending on who you ask, the most important holiday in the year. There are many cultural traditions specific to Easter, dying the eggs red, or known as κοκκινο αυγα, easter tsoudeki bread, midnight church services, family gatherings, amongst other cultural distinctions. One does not have to follow the Greek Orthodox or Russian Orthodox faith to appreciate the food, history, and tradition behind the practices. Below are a few examples of how those not of the faith can enjoy Orthodox, specifically Greek Orthodox, Easter.
A lamb roast is at the top of the list, as lamb is important to Greek cuisine in general, and Greek Easter. At the end of lent, those who historically participated gave up meat, so to reward themselves they roasted a full lamb. Try roasting a lamb in your backyard if you can, lamb tastes delicious and is not often found in most people’s diets. Not only will you be able to try a need food, lamb, you can also improve your cooking skills. This is a very Greek thing to do for Easter, and in general, so impress other Greeks or your friends by roasting a lamb.
Know the difference on the calendar between Orthodox Easter and the other Christian Easter dates. The Greek Orthodox Religion follows the Julian Calendar, not the Gregorian Calendar. There is a thirteen day difference between the two calendars, with the Julian being 13 days behind the Gregorian. Again, this knowledge will impress your Greek friends, so do not hesitate to share your knowledge with them.
Participate in a fast or give something up for lent. You do not have to give up something essential to your life, or follow the fasting rules word by word, but to give up eating sweets or participate in the forty day fast would benefit your body and mind. For the fast, try giving up meat and restricting your excessive binge eating to start, while for lent give up video games or another unproductive activity, like Netflix. Although not all Greeks follow the rules of lent and fasting very strictly, most do observe in some way through giving up candy and sugars (for lent) and observe some fasting plan for lent.
Remember, one does not have to be Greek or of the Orthodox faith to appreciate how Easter is celebrated by the Greeks. For Easter of 2021, try out one of the above, and say “Καλο Πασκα” which means “Happy Easter” to your Greek friends. They will very much appreciate your words.
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