Easter in Ukraine: traditions, symbols and the role of the candle in the celebration

Easter is one of the most important Christian holidays, deeply rooted in the hearts of the Ukrainian people. It is not just a date on the calendar — it is a true ritual of unity, purification and rebirth. Ukrainian Easter traditions are rich, symbolic and shrouded in aromas, colors and light — especially the light of the Easter candle , which carries a deep spiritual meaning.

🌿 The period before Easter: silence, preparation and fasting

Preparation for Easter begins with Lent, which lasts seven weeks. It is a time not only of dietary restrictions, but also of spiritual purification: the faithful avoid arguments, resentment and sin, dedicating themselves to prayer and good deeds.

After Palm Sunday, the general cleaning of the house begins—physical and spiritual. The windows are washed, the floors shine, the white linen tablecloth is laid on the table, and the embroidered shirts (vyshyvanka) are lovingly prepared.

🍞 Friday and Saturday: baking paska and painting eggs

One of the most significant rituals is the preparation of paska , the traditional Easter bread. It is made with devotion, usually on Good Friday or Holy Saturday. The house should be silent, in a calm and respectful environment. Women wear clean clothes, wash their hands with holy water and prepare the dough with positive thoughts.

In addition to paska, decorated eggs (pysanky and krashanky) are essential. The egg symbolizes new life, rebirth, the victory of life over death. Pysanky are decorated with ancient symbols: the sun, the tree of life, crosses, flowers and birds.

🧺 The Easter basket

On the night from Saturday to Sunday, Ukrainians go to church with their Easter baskets to be blessed. This tradition combines faith, aesthetics and culture. The basket contains the best foods: paska, eggs, sausages, cheese, butter, horseradish, salt and, of course, a candle .

The candle symbolizes the light that Christ brought to the world. It is lit during the blessing and carefully carried home, keeping the flame alive. This sacred fire can be used to bless the home, bringing protection and harmony to the family.

✨ The candle in the Ukrainian Easter tradition

The candle plays a profound role in Easter traditions:

• Light of the Resurrection — the victory of good over evil, of life over death.

• Purification — the Easter fire is used to bless the home, family members and even animals.

• Protection — in some regions, fire is guarded throughout the year as an amulet.

There is also the custom of sharing the flame with neighbors and family, forming an invisible chain of faith and hope.

🕯 The candle at home — more than a symbol

After Mass, the family gathers for Easter breakfast . In the center of the table: paska, eggs, an embroidered tablecloth and a lit candle. This light is not only a spiritual symbol, but also a sign of coziness and peace.

Today, in addition to traditional candles, many people use handmade scented candles to create a special atmosphere. Scents such as cinnamon, vanilla or lavender enhance the festive and welcoming spirit of Easter.

🎶 Popular traditions and Easter games

After breakfast, it's time to celebrate with joy . In some villages, old traditions are still alive:

• Ritual songs (haivky) — sung by girls in a circle, in front of the church.

• Egg games — competitions between children to see which egg rolls the furthest or breaks the others.

• Wet Monday — Western tradition where people get wet symbolizing purification.

These customs are more than just fun — they are living expressions of Ukrainian folk culture.

🌼 Easter as a family celebration

The most important thing about Easter is being together . Bringing the family together, remembering our ancestors, and feeling the connection between generations. Even though some people celebrate far from their homeland, the symbols remain the same: paska, embroidered tablecloths, candles. They remind us of who we are, where we come from, and why it is so important to maintain our traditions.

🕊 Memory, faith and hope

In Ukraine, Easter is more than just a celebration — it is part of the national identity. Even in difficult times, this holiday fills the heart with hope. And a lit candle, no matter how small, represents that light always conquers darkness .