Orthodox Easter Monday, also known as Bright Monday, is widely celebrated in the Eastern European country of Moldova. It comes right after the Orthodox Easter Sunday and signifies the second day of the Easter celebrations. It is a public holiday in Moldova wherein schools, government offices, and most businesses are closed. The Orthodox Christian community in Moldova follows the Julian calendar, which usually places the Easter holidays later than the Western churches that follow the Gregorian calendar.
On Orthodox Easter Monday, the people of Moldova continue the joyful celebrations of the Resurrection of Jesus Christ, started on Easter Sunday. Various religious, traditional, and cultural activities take place throughout the country. Many people attend special church services, while others celebrate it in the comfort of their home by preparing and enjoying festive meals with their family and friends. Traditional foods include Pasca, a sweet bread, and Easter eggs dyed in vivid colors.
Orthodox Easter Monday holds great significance for the people of Moldova, and it is celebrated with high spirit and enthusiasm, with a focus on family gatherings and religious ceremonies. The holiday embodies a blend of religious reverence and cultural practices, providing an opportunity to not only celebrate the mystical resurrection of Jesus Christ but also to honor traditional customs and values. It's a day when the residents take a break from their daily routines to spend quality time with their loved ones, cherishing and transferring the rich cultural heritage of their ancestors to the younger generation.