When most Americans think of Easter, a few things come to mind: baskets filled with candy, pastel-colored eggs, and maybe a visit from the Easter Bunny. But Easter Traditions in Italy: Pasqua is an entirely different experience—one filled with centuries-old rituals, symbolic foods, and vibrant community celebrations that might surprise even seasoned travelers.
If you’re curious about what Easter really looks like in Italy—or planning a trip during Holy Week—here are the Italian Easter traditions that truly stand apart from American customs.
Faith First: Easter in Italy Is a Sacred Week
Unlike in the U.S., where Easter is often more about family brunch and sweet treats, in Italy the week leading up to Easter Sunday is deeply spiritual. Known as Holy Week, it’s filled with religious events that transform entire towns.
All across the country, you’ll find solemn processions reenacting the Passion of Christ. One of the most famous is the Processione dei Misteri in Trapani, Sicily, which lasts up to 24 hours. In Florence, things get more dramatic with the Scoppio del Carro—an elaborate cart filled with fireworks is ignited in front of the Duomo, symbolizing the Holy Spirit’s arrival.
These events aren’t tourist shows. They’re sacred, community-driven rituals. Locals dress in traditional robes, carry religious statues through winding streets, and gather in churches by the thousands. If you’re in Italy during this time, attending one of these processions is a moving experience—and a clear window into the soul of the country.
From Lamb to Giant Chocolate Eggs: The Food Is Rich in Meaning
In Italy, food is never just food—it’s heritage on a plate. And at Easter, that tradition is in full bloom.
You won’t find jellybeans or marshmallow chicks here. Instead, roasted lamb (abbacchio) is the star of the Easter table, representing sacrifice and new life. Side dishes often include artichokes and seasonal greens, while desserts bring out the best of regional baking.
Chocolate eggs at the supermarket
You’ll likely see a Colomba di Pasqua on many tables—a dove-shaped sweet bread, dusted with pearl sugar and almonds. In Naples, the must-have dessert is Pastiera Napoletana, a creamy pie made of wheat, ricotta, and orange blossom water that smells like spring and tradition.
But it’s the chocolate eggs that truly light up children’s eyes. These are no ordinary sweets. In Italy, Easter eggs are huge, sometimes taller than six feet, and always come with a surprise hidden inside. Kids eagerly wait to smash open their eggs to discover what’s inside. Some are filled with toys or charms. Others are personalized—a man might even hide an engagement ring inside one to propose.
Shops across Italy sell eggs in all sizes and colors. You can choose to know what’s inside, or go for the thrill of a total surprise. Either way, the egg-breaking moment is a beloved Easter ritual shared by kids and adults alike.
The Day After Easter Is a Holiday, Too
In the U.S., Easter Monday often passes unnoticed. Not in Italy.
Known as Pasquetta, or “Little Easter,” it’s a national holiday dedicated to picnics, countryside hikes, and good food with friends. The idea is to take the celebration outdoors and enjoy the early spring weather. Families pack up leftover lamb, cheese, wine, and head to the beach, hills, or any green space they can find.
In some small towns, people still play ruzzolone—an old countryside game where wheels of cheese are rolled along the roads. Pasquetta isn’t religious; it’s social. And if you’re visiting, it’s the perfect day to blend in and see Italians at their most relaxed.
📌 Travel Tip: Many restaurants and stores are closed on Pasquetta. If you’re planning to eat out, reserve well in advance—or join the locals and plan a picnic of your own.
Common Misunderstandings American Travelers Have
If you’re used to Easter in the U.S., a few things in Italy might catch you off guard:
- Shops and museums may be closed, especially on Easter Sunday and Monday. Even big cities like Rome or Florence slow way down.
- Churches are extremely busy. Don’t expect a quiet stroll through the Duomo or Vatican. Services and crowds dominate the space.
- No egg hunts or bunnies. Children in Italy may have seen Easter Bunny cartoons, but it’s not part of their tradition.
And the mood? It’s reverent. Where American Easter can feel light and playful, Italian Pasqua is introspective, dignified, and communal—especially during Good Friday and Holy Saturday.
Planning a Future Easter Trip? Here’s How to Do It Right
Thinking about traveling to Italy for Easter one year? Here’s what you should know:
- Book early: Easter is a major travel season for both Italians and pilgrims from abroad.
- Stay in a smaller town: While Rome and Florence are beautiful, Easter in places like Orvieto, Gubbio, or Assisi gives you a more intimate view of local traditions.
- Ask locals about events: Many processions or traditions aren’t advertised online. Ask your host or a shopkeeper—people are happy to share.
- Enjoy the silence: Good Friday is particularly solemn. Use it as a chance to step back, observe, and reflect—just like the locals do.
Experiencing Easter in Italy
For those interested in experiencing Easter traditions in Italy firsthand, there are numerous tours and events available. GetYourGuide and Viator offer various options, from attending the Scoppio del Carro in Florence to participating in Easter cooking classes in Rome.
If you’re planning a trip to Italy during Easter, it’s advisable to book accommodations and tours well in advance, as this is a popular time for both locals and tourists.
Additionally, be prepared for closures of shops and restaurants on Easter Sunday and Pasquetta.
For more insights into Italian traditions and travel tips, explore our related posts:
- Christmas In Italy: everything you need to know!
- The Best Food in Rome: A Culinary Journey Through the Eternal City
- Tuscan Wines: The kings of Italian Wine
🌟 Want Help Planning the Perfect Italian Holiday?
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We’ll help you find authentic celebrations, avoid tourist traps, and enjoy Italy like a local—whether you want to join a procession or break open a chocolate egg with a surprise inside.
