7 Easter Traditions in the UK

Suitable for pre-intermediate CEFR B1+


#Easter is a Christian religious holiday celebrated around the world that commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ on the cross and his subsequent resurrection. Nowadays, Easter is also celebrated as a springtime cultural tradition representing the coming of new life for many atheists and people of other religious traditions living in countries with Christian heritage. The UK has a very strong Christian tradition, though Christianity is now declining as more people identify as non-religious. Here are seven Easter traditions that are common in the UK. 

1. Hot Cross Buns

These delicious sweet fruit buns are marked with the sign of the cross that represents the crucifixion of Christ. Traditionally eaten on Good Friday, the day of Jesus’ death, they are best served toasted with a little butter. Today you can find many gourmet hot cross buns available in supermarkets with different flavours, such as chocolate, apple, cinnamon and orange, though personally I think the original fruit bun is both cheaper and tastier! 

2. Decorate an Easter Tree

The tree, with long roots and branches, represents growth and the cycle of life, whereas the delicate painted eggs symbolise rebirth and the coming of new life. Many people in the UK decorate an Easter tree for their living room or dining room during the holy week and egg painting and decorating is a popular craft activity for children. 

3. Easter Eggs

Eggs have symbolised the resurrection of Christ throughout history, though the eating of eggs was originally forbidden during the holy week. Nowadays, the giving of chocolate eggs is probably the most popular and well-known Easter tradition worldwide. The first chocolate eggs appeared in France and Germany in the 19^th Century and the method has been perfected by chocolatiers across the world ever since. 

4. Morris dancing

This traditional English folkdance dating back to the 15^th Century is based on rhythmic stepping by groups of dancers usually dressed in white. Dancers often wear bells on their shins and clap sticks together or wave handkerchiefs in time with accordion music. Dancers may also wear ribbons and hats with colours to represent their county or region. Morris dancing performances are common during Easter weekend and May day to celebrate the coming of spring.

5. Roast lamb 

Sheep farming is common in parts of the UK including Wales, Scotland and North West England. Roast lamb is traditionally served on Easter Sunday in many homes as it is close to the lambing season. Roast lamb is usually served with roast or new potatoes and spring vegetables such as broccoli and carrots. 

6. The Easter Bunny

The rabbit, famous for giving birth to many babies called kittens, has long been a folkloric symbol of new life at Easter. It is thought that the Easter bunny first appeared in the 19^th Century, bringing baskets of coloured eggs and sweets to children or hiding them to be found on Easter Sunday. 

7. Easter bonnets

This tradition comes from a time when it was common for people to wear their finest new clothes to church at Easter, which often included a hat for women to cover their hair. Nowadays Easter bonnets are made in all sorts of strange and colourful designs as part of Easter or springtime festivals and parades.




Are there any strange or interesting Easter traditions from your country? Please share in the comments! 


#HappyEaster