“…For England may keep faith
For all that is done and said.>
We know their dream; enough>
To know they dreamed and are dead;>
And what if excess of love>
Bewildered them till they died?>
I write it out in a verse -->
MacDonagh and MacBride>
And Connolly and pearse>
Now and in time to be,>
Wherever green is worn,>
Are changed, changed utterly:>
A terrible beauty is born.”
These beautiful lyrics by William Butler Yeats from his famous poetic work 'Easter 1916' wonderfully illustrates Easter in England. The native British citizens are known all over the world for their unique religious traditions and rich cultural heritage. Long before the arrival of Christianity, Easter was observed in England in honor of the Anglo Saxon goddess, Eostre. Easter celebrations in England begin with Lent that falls on Ash Wednesday lasting for 40 days excluding Sundays. The last three days before the beginning of Lent is known as Shrovetide which is marked with huge revelries. The day is also known as 'Pancake Day' as thin flat cake, made of batter is fried in a pan.
Easter is one of the great festivals of the year, hence popular Easter customs like egg rolling, performing Pace Egg plays, Morris dancing and display of Easter bunny are a common sight during this occasion in parts of England. All the churches in England are decorated with Madonna lily also called the Easter lily symbolizing purity and is prominently featured in many flower arrangements. The women folk in England attend the church services wearing Easter bonnets. Also pussy willow branches are picked especially for Easter and people intercept each other with them for good luck in the coming days.
Easter festivities in England however remain incomplete with its mouthwatering special recipes like hams, pound cakes, marshmallow Easter Eggs and Easter muffins. Sweet chocolate candies are a great delight for children on this festive occasion. Due to its wide festive activities, tourists from the neighboring countries flock to the popular Easter holiday destinations in England like the Yorkshire Dales National Park, the majestic castles of Warwickshire, awe-inspiring ancient cottages of Sussex and the amazing cities of Cumbria and Lancashire situated in the north western part of England.
So, what are you waiting for! Come to England and explore the splendid and extravagant Easter celebrations happening in different parts of England. Here's wishing all readers Happy Easter!
Christmas Carnivals provides you varied insights on Easter in England. Keep navigating for more details.
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