German Easter Traditions
Traditionally, the fasting period begins 40 days before Easter Sunday. This period is about abstinence. In the past, people would avoid eating meat and chocolate on these days.
Nowadays, this custom is interpreted differently. Some people decide not to watch TV, drink alcohol, or skip certain food during this time.
Generally, it is a tradition to eat fish on Good Friday. On this day, there is a ban on dancing in Germany, as this is the time to remember Jesus’ crucifixion. Good Friday is therefore also known as Remembrance Day and is a public holiday.
On Holy Saturday, the great Easter feast is prepared. An Easter lamb (a cake) is baked, and eggs are painted in many different colours.
Easter Sunday is celebrated by having an Easter bonfire and indicates the end of the fasting period. Additionally, egg rolling (where children push the previously painted eggs down a hill and then try to catch them again as they roll) and a rich Easter meal, often with meat, will complete the celebration.
A typical dish on this day is the so-called "false rabbit". What exactly is behind it and how to prepare it, you can read in the soon-to-be-published CPO Times.
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