Wintertime in Germany can be long and cold. Therefore, Easter not only marks a joyous holiday but also the eagerly anticipated beginning of spring season.
Easter is one of the most popular holidays in Germany, as it carries a deep religious meaning but is also regarded as a time to spend with the family. When it comes to celebrating Easter, Germany has no shortage of festivities and traditions, many of which are well known around the world.
The Easter Bunny, for instance, is a German creation. Originally, however, it was a hare, not rabbit. Although the folkloric figure of the ”Osterhase” was born in Germany centuries ago, it is still well known until today for hiding colourfully painted eggs and tasty treats in the garden for children to find. An egg-hunt is a fun activity for the whole family, no matter if you’re young or young at heart.
On Easter weekend, most Germans follow the popular tradition: gathering with their loved ones and lighting up a bonfire. Everyone is welcome to join, and there is no better way to welcoming the new season than warming yourself by the fire, as the flames are believed to drive away evil spirits and the cold of winter. Easter bonfires are lit all across Germany, from the banks of the river Elbe in Hamburg to the heights of the Harz mountains.
Germany also provides free shopping spaces during Easter weekend. Taking place in Essen, Bad Tolz and many other cities, towns and villages across the country, Germany’s Easter markets are the perfect opportunity to discover regional handicrafts such as Sorbian Easter eggs and try local delicacies.
Celebrating Easter in Germany in the spring season means that tourists can witness nature awakening from its slumber and during a time where the birds are singing, the flowers are blooming and the mood is light and cheerful. Tourists can take advantages of everything the new season has to offer, like a leisurely walk along the Heidschnuckenweg trail on Luneburg Heath. Another activity perfect for spring time is a cycling tour around Lake Constance, with a visit to Mainau Island, known as the “Blumeninsel” (flower island) due to its beautiful parks and gardens.
Flower festivals and regional garden shows also provide the perfect opportunity to learn and experience the most of what spring is all about. Thuringia’s fourth garden show will take place in the town of Apolda between 29 April and 24 September.
Thuringia is not the only federal state reveling in the beauty of spring time – North Rhine-Westphalia also hosts its own garden show between 12 April and 15 October in Bad Lippspringe, near the city of Paderborn. Be sure to pay a visit while the gardens and flowers are in full bloom.
