CELEBRATING BRITAIN
Discover some of the weird and wonderful British traditions that take place at this time of year
From hot cross buns to bunnies, Easter is a time for celebration and observing the resurrection of Christ. However, many Easter traditions are rooted in earlier paganism – honouring the rebirth of nature – and were adopted by the Christian church when Britain was converted. Here are some of the customs that take place across Britain.
BUNNIES AND EGGS
It wouldn’t be Easter without eggs – preferably foil-wrapped, not scrambled – and the Easter Bunny is said to hide chocolate eggs for well-behaved children (although in some countries it’s a hare, not a rabbit). In certain parts of the UK, egg-rolling contests are held, in which competitors vie to see whose egg can roll the furthest without cracking. The tradition is said to represent the rolling away of the stone from Jesus’ tomb.
Long before Cadbury, eggs played a starring role in Anglo-Saxon festivities. It’s believed they were buried and eaten during springtime festivals to celebrate Eostre – a Pagan goddess of fertility. Sadly for our ancestors, they wouldn’t have been chocolate.
WHO DOESN’T LOVE A HOT CROSS BUN?
Lightly toasted with lashings of butter, please. The cross, made from flour paste, represents the crucifixion, and the spices are said to represent the embalming spices. It was once believed the buns had healing properties, and that one should be put aside and given to anyone who fell ill during the year. But these fruity treats might have been around for longer than we realise – it’s thought that pre-Christianity ‘cross buns’ were baked in honour of Eostre, with the four quarters symbolising the seasons.
MAYPOLES AND MORRIS DANCERS
Hold on to your ribbons! Although maypole dancing predates Christianity, it has been an Easter holiday tradition for centuries – and a lovely one at that. You might also spot some Morris dancers. Dating back to the 1400s, the English folk dance was once incorrectly thought to be traditionally male, but there are now many female groups too. They commonly appear at Easter parades with sticks, handkerchiefs, swords and bells.
ANYONE SEEN JACK?
If you spot a man caked in leaves and foliage coming your way, don’t worry, it’s probably Jack in the Green. This is another ancient ritual symbolisin
