Greek Easter (Pascha) is the most important celebration in the Greek Orthodox calendar. The festival centres on food, family, and traditions that have remained unchanged for centuries.

The Lamb

The centrepiece is whole lamb roasted on a spit. Families gather early to start the fire. The lamb turns slowly for hours, rubbed with lemon, garlic, and oregano, as everyone takes turns at the spit.

Breaking the Fast

At midnight on Holy Saturday, after the Resurrection service, families break the Lenten fast with magiritsa – lamb offal soup with egg-lemon sauce. It's traditional comfort food.

The Easter Table

• Tsoureki: Sweet bread with mahlab and mastic, braided and decorated with red eggs
• Red eggs: Symbolising Christ's blood. Families play a cracking game – last unbroken egg wins
• Kokoretsi: Lamb offal wrapped in intestines, roasted alongside the lamb
• Fresh salads and dips: Horiatiki, tzatziki, taramasalata

Experiencing Greek Easter

Many Greek restaurants offer Easter specials with whole lamb (pre-order required). Greek community clubs often host public celebrations. If invited to a Greek family's Easter, accept immediately – it's an unforgettable experience of warmth, generosity, and incredible food.