Easter Witches in Sweden
Most Christian holidays have pagan roots and traditions, and Easter is no exception. In Sweden, it is said that this is the time of year that witches mounted their broomsticks and flew off to Blockulla – the mystical meadow where witches gathered to dance with the devil.
This piece of folklore is commemorated in Sweden on Maundy Thursday, or Scarlett Thursday – the Thursday before Easter Sunday, a day in which the Church marks the Last Supper at which Jesus Christ was betrayed by one of the Apostles. In a tradition similar to Halloween, Swedish children paint their faces and dress as witches (påskkärringar, or ‘Easter hags’). They go from door to door, carrying their broomsticks, to ask for candy and other treats. In some areas, the children make little decorated cards, called Easter letters, that they trade for their treats or leave in the neighbor’s mailbox.
It is also a custom to light bonfires or even set off fireworks in some regions of Sweden on that day – perhaps to ward off the evil influences of the Easter witches on their journey to Blockulla.
These cute little witches have become as much a symbol of Easter and the coming of Spring as the Easter Bunny has in other countries. The other unique Swedish Easter custom is the tradition of tying brightly colored feathers to pussy willow branches for decoration.
Swedes also color Easter eggs, and enjoy a big feast on the Saturday before Easter (Easter Eve), typically including lamb and egg dishes to celebrate rebirth and the fertility of Spring.
GLAD PÅSK!
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The Swedish Easter traditions is a mixture of Christian and pagan beleifs. In many ways a celebration of the birth of the new season.. winter is over. The birch tree branches are brought into the homes during the lent and decorated with colored feathers,and later with little miniature witches.
Colorfull easter eggs and these 2 pretty witches for sure are welcoming the long awaited spring.