Easter, Surb Zatik is really important in Armenia because it was the first country to become Christian way back in 301. So, Easter is super special for Armenians. It's the happiest and most serious time in their church calendar.

Easter is all about celebrating Jesus coming back to life, which is a big celebration for Christians. In Armenia, people do lots of stuff during Easter time. They go to church and spend time fasting, which means not eating certain foods before Easter comes. But it's not all serious stuff. There's also fun games with colorful eggs, and of course, lots of yummy food to enjoy together.

40-days Fasting

During Easter, many Armenians observe a period of fasting as part of their religious practice. This means they choose not to eat certain types of food for a set period of time leading up to Easter Sunday.

The fasting period typically involves abstaining from foods like meat, poultry, dairy products, and sometimes even oil and wine. Instead, people may focus on eating simpler foods like bread, vegetables, and fruits.

Fasting during Easter is seen as a way to spiritually prepare and reflect on the significance of the holiday, as well as to remember the sacrifices made by Jesus Christ. It's an important tradition for many Armenians and is often followed with dedication and reverence.

Foods During Easter

Eggs

Preparing for Easter is a big deal for many Armenian people. Some families like to get ready by growing wheat, lentils, or other grains that sprout. Then, on Easter day, they'll put the dyed eggs on the grown grass to make them look extra bright and beautiful.

On Easter itself, Armenians have a special tradition of boiling and dyeing eggs in red. This red color symbolizes new life, freedom, and happiness, all because of the Blood of Christ. It's a really meaningful way to celebrate the holiday.

A famous Armenian Christian, named St. Gregory of Tatev had some interesting thoughts about eggs. He said that the egg represents the whole world. The shell is like the sky, the membrane is the air, the white part is water, and the yolk is the earth. It's a pretty cool way of looking at things!

A lot of people still like to dye their eggs using natural ingredients, like red onion skins or beetroot. And in Armenia, they make it fun! One of the favorite parts for kids is having egg fights. You take your boiled egg and hit it against your opponent's egg. Whoever's egg doesn't crack gets to keep playing with it, until there's just one winner left. Sometimes, the winner even gets a cool prize, like a big chocolate egg or bunny-shaped chocolates.

Easter Dishes: Rice Pilaf, Fish, Sweets

When it comes to the main dishes for Easter, fish is a popular choice. It's often served alongside rice pilaf that's made with lots of tasty raisins. It's a delicious way to celebrate such a special day.

Although rice isn't as common in Armenian cuisine as it is in Asia, it takes center stage during Easter celebrations! Armenians prepare a special pilaf featuring rice and raisins, where each ingredient holds symbolic meaning: the rice represents humanity, while the raisins symbolize Christians worldwide. Alongside this flavorful dish, the table is full with an array of fresh greens like coriander, tarragon, and green onions, served either raw or cooked with eggs. These dishes are perfectly complemented by Armenian lavash bread, an essential part of the traditional spread.

But there's another bread that steals the show during this special holiday: Chorek, also known as Easter bread. This sweet treat, akin to a brioche bun, is a favorite among kids and adults alike. Soft, fluffy, and infused with sweetness, Chorek is a once-a-year indulgence eagerly awaited by all.

On Easter day, Armenians exchange heartfelt greetings, joyfully proclaiming, "Christ is risen from the dead," to which they receive the jubilant response, "Blessed is the Resurrection of Christ." This beautiful tradition not only celebrates the resurrection but also embodies the spirit of unity and joy shared among Armenians worldwide during this festive season. Visit Armenia during Easter Celebrations!