Easter Sunday

Easter History

Easter, known as Påske in Norway, commemorates the resurrection of Jesus from the dead according to Christian belief. The festival involves various customs and rituals, many of which are closely tied to the arrival of spring. Easter is observed in ways that unify religious traditions and secular cultural practices, making it a celebration that resonates deeply within the Norwegian society.

Easter celebration in Norway has unique elements intertwined with a mix of religious roots and cultural evolution. The country's observance merged Christian traditions, such as church services on Easter Sunday, with more secular elements over time. A notable custom is the reading or watching of crime novels and TV series, known as "Påskekrim," a tradition which began with a clever book advertisement in 1923. Easter eggs also play a significant role, symbolizing rebirth and renewal, linking directly to the themes of resurrection and the onset of spring.

In Norway, Easter is observed with specific customs. Most Norwegians have a week-long break, owing to the numerous public holidays during Holy Week and Easter Monday. Many seize this opportunity to travel to mountain cabins for skiing and relaxation, a tradition known as "Påskeferie." City streets often become eerily quiet as families head for the hills. The season of Easter in Norway varies each year but generally falls between March 22nd and April 25th each year.

Facts about Easter Sunday

• For many Christian congregations, the first Easter service for the year is the Service of Light. The worship typically starts in darkness on the preceding Saturday night or early Sunday morning. Light is brought into the church with candles to signify hope based on the resurrection. The service culminates with the lighting of a paschal candle, signifying Christ.
• Easter eggs represent new life and also symbolize the shape of Jesus' tomb.

In the News and Trending in Norway for Easter Sunday

Top things to do in Norway for Easter

• Go to a children's Easter egg hunt or hold one of your own. Many churches have them the Saturday before Easter too.
• Cook an Easter dinner for family and friends. Traditional entrees include lamb or ham. During Lent (period leading up to Easter), many Roman Catholics exclude meat from their diet, so Easter is often indulgent on meat.