Orthodox Easter Day, also known simply as Easter, is one of the most significant celebrations in the Romanian Orthodox Church. It marks the resurrection of Jesus Christ, according to Christian belief. The date varies from year to year and it often differs from the Western Christian Churches and it is a majestic event filled with traditional customs and practices that display the country's rich culture and religious devotion.
The observance of Orthodox Easter Day in Romania starts with the Holy Week preceding Easter Sunday. The week includes a series of religious events such as confessing sins, cleaning homes, and dyeing eggs particularly in red to symbolize the blood of Christ. Good Friday observes the crucifixion of Jesus and His death at Calvary which is marked with solemnity and reverence. A midnight mass, typically held on Holy Saturday night, is carried out in churches all over the country, where Romanians attend in large numbers.
On Easter Sunday, Romanians celebrate with feasting and merriment to honor the resurrection of Christ. Traditional foods like lamb, cozonac (a type of sweet bread), and red eggs are commonly prepared. Families often gather together for a ceremonial meal. The occasion also involves visiting friends, neighbors and offering Easter eggs. The Orthodox Easter Day in Romania, while deeply rooted in religious beliefs, also underscores the strong cultural value of family ties and communal harmony.