Easter is right around the corner! Easter Sunday is March 31, 2024. And you’ll find many ways to celebrate happening throughout the month. We’ve got a list of local Easter events in the CSRA below for you and your family to enjoy!
The History Of Easter
Easter is a holiday that is based on the Christian religion and celebrates the resurrection of Jesus. According to the New Testament, the resurrection of Jesus occurred 3 days after his death by crucifixion. Britannica.com says the first recorded celebration of Easter happened in the 2nd century.
There are a few things that lead up to the celebration of Easter in the Christian religion. For many, it begins with Ash Wednesday, marking the first day of Lent. This day is 40 days before Easter and is observed with fasting, prayer, and sacrifice. Then there’s Holy Week, including Holy Thursday. This day is a celebration of Jesus’ Last Supper. It’s also known as Maundy Thursday. The week ends with Good Friday, which observes Jesus’ crucifixion. And on Sunday, Easter is a celebration of Jesus’ resurrection.
Unlike Christmas, which is always celebrated on the 25th day of December, the date for Easter changes. When it comes to the date for Easter, in Western Christianity it falls between March 22nd and April 25th. This is based on the Gregorian calendar. The date for Easter falls on the first Sunday after the first full moon occurring on or after the spring equinox.
Orthodox Easter differs slightly as it adheres to the Julian calendar. The date falls between April 4th and May 8th.
There’s some debate on where the term Easter originated. And despite being an observance that’s religious in nature, some traditions and symbols associated with Easter actually have pagan origins. Read more about the history of Easter HERE.
Ways To Celebrate Easter
There are various ways that people celebrate Easter. Some people start with the observance of Lent, while others simply observe Good Friday and Easter Sunday. But all throughout the weeks leading up to Easter, you’re sure to find a variety of events to celebrate, some are religious, while others aren’t.
A few ideas for Easter celebrations:
- Attending church services
- Decorating Easter Eggs
- Easter Egg Hunts
- Visiting the Easter Bunny
- Brunch or Dinner with family
- Easter Egg Relay Races
- Giving gifts or Easter baskets
And if you’re hoping to find some local Easter events here in the CSRA, we’ve got you covered! Check out the list below!
Easter Events in the CSRA (Updated 02/26/2024)
Let us know if you have any to add! Send an email.
