South Tyrolean Easter traditions

Easter traditions in South Tyrol begin as early as Palm Sunday, when the last person to get out of bed that morning is crowned the "Palm Donkey."

In church, the so-called palm bouquets or palm brooms are then blessed. These are festively decorated sticks adorned with pussy willows, olive branches, spring flowers, ribbons, and beautifully decorated Easter eggs.

The tradition is meant to remind us of how the people of Jerusalem once honored Jesus. And if a thunderstorm arises, these blessed branches are thrown into the home’s fireplace as a kind of heavenly lightning rod to protect the house and farm.

Just four days later, on Maundy Thursday, we are busy with the traditional task of dyeing Easter eggs. Then comes Good Friday, marked by strict fasting. But the real joy is just around the corner: Easter! And for children, it brings not only colorful eggs but also sweet surprises from the Easter Bunny.

Easter also includes another delicious tradition known as the "Blessed Feast." In church, a variety of treats like Easter bread, Easter ham, horseradish, and beautifully decorated Easter eggs are blessed and then savored at home.

Speaking of Easter eggs, they are not just for display, but also put to the ultimate test in a game called "egg tapping." Who chose the toughest egg? The duel begins, egg against egg—first with the pointed ends, then with the rounded sides. A battle of the eggs! And Easter in South Tyrol would not be complete without traditional Easter concerts by local brass bands and many other springtime festivities.