Orthodox Easter Sunday, also known as Pascha, is considered the most significant festival in the Orthodox Church calendar in Albania. In order to calculate the date, the Orthodox Church uses the Julian calendar and determines Easter to be the first Sunday after the full moon that occurs on the spring equinox. This date fluctuates annually and is usually one week after Western Easter.
In the mainly Orthodox regions of Albania, this day is marked by numerous customs and traditions that have been passed down through generations. This begins with a period of Lent for forty days, during which Orthodox Christians observe strict fasting. The Holy Week leading to Orthodox Easter Sunday is characterized by a series of religious ceremonies like the Holy Unction, the commemoration of Jesus' washing of the disciples' feet, and the Crucifixion.
On the eve of Orthodox Easter Sunday, the air in Albania is thick with anticipation as the faithful congregate in churches for the midnight service known as the Divine Liturgy of Pascha. At the stroke of midnight, all lights are extinguished and then the priest emerges with a single lit candle, symbolizing Jesus' resurrection. This holy light is passed among the congregation until every candle is ablaze, an emotional and moving spectacle known as the 'Holy Light' ceremony. Following the church service, families return home to break their fast with a festive meal, often featuring the traditional dish 'Fërgesë', marking the end of the Holy Week.