Easter Monday is a significant public holiday in Austria as it marks the end of the Holy Week and the Easter weekend. The holiday is a follow-up to Easter Sunday and is celebrated with various traditions and customs. Although it doesn't have a specific religious connotation, Easter Monday is an opportunity for Austrians to continue the joyous celebration of the resurrection of Christ.
In Austria, Easter Monday's festivities may vary according to regional customs. However, some common practices include family gatherings, where a special meal is prepared. Traditional Austrian Easter foods like the Osterbrot, a bread usually prepared in the shape of an Easter lamb or Easter Bunny, and decorated Easter eggs, are enjoyed. Additionally, Easter markets, where one can buy Easter decorations, traditional Austrian Easter food, and other items, extend until Easter Monday.
In many places in Austria, large bonfires are lit on Easter Monday as a symbol of the light of the resurrected Christ. The burning of the winter effigy in these fires is also a common practice, symbolizing the end of winter and the welcoming of spring. Other activities include church visits, Easter parades, and Easter egg hunts, especially for children. Despite variations according to regional customs, the sense of community, renewal, and joy encompassing Easter Monday remains universal across Austria.