Easter as it used to be Customs and warmth in Salzburger Land

Easter like back then: customs and warmth in Salzburger Land

When spring arrives and the first palm bushes adorn the houses, it is time for one of the most beautiful traditions of the year in Salzburger Land: Easter. Between living faith, culinary delights and lovingly handed-down customs, it is clear how closely connected the people here are to their homeland.

Palm bushes – a colorful greeting to spring

Palm Sunday marks the start of the Easter season. In almost every village in Salzburger Land, artistically tied palm bushes are carried into the church for blessing. The branches – usually boxwood, willow or juniper – are lovingly decorated with colorful ribbons, pretzels or apples.

The palm donkey – who comes too late …

An age-old custom that is still practiced in families in particular is the so-called palm donkey. This is the person who is the last to get up on Palm Sunday. With a wink, they are declared the “Palmesel” – a charming tradition that connects generations.

Quiet days with great significance

Good Friday is a day of silence and reflection. On Easter Saturday, families prepare Easter nests, dye eggs with natural dyes and bake Easter cakes. The solemn blessing of the food is a much-loved fixture for many.

Eierpecken – the little duel with a lot of tradition

On Easter Sunday, one game is a must: egg pecking. Two people knock their hard-boiled eggs against each other – whose egg stays intact is the winner. A cheerful game that should not be missed at Easter breakfast.

Easter bonfire & ratchet children

In some villages, Easter fires blaze, symbolically carrying the light of resurrection into the world. Children with wooden rattles replace the church bells and create a very special Easter atmosphere.