Argentina Easter Traditions: How Argentinians Celebrate Holyweek
Argentina is a big country in South America.
Most people there are Catholic, which means they follow the religion of Christianity. They really enjoy celebrating Christian holidays with happiness, according to Fundoo Times.
One important holiday for them is Easter. It's about Jesus Christ coming back to life after he died on the cross. In Argentina, Easter is a big deal.
They celebrate for two weeks! During this time, they have special religious events like processions and masses.
This celebration starts from Palm Sunday and goes on until Holy Saturday, which is the day before Easter.
They call this time "Semana Santa," which means Holy Week in their language.
Like other countries where people are mostly Catholic, Argentina has its own traditions for Easter. They make this holiday special in their own unique way.
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Argentina Easter Traditions
During Lent, many Argentinians, like Catholics worldwide, avoid eating meat on Fridays, Sayhueque noted.
They enjoy dishes like Bacalao con garbanzos, a stew made with salt cod and veggies.
They also have special empanadas filled with tuna, veggies, and cheeses like Roquefort or Mozzarella, known as "empanadas de viglia."
These unique foods are popular across Argentina and offer a tasty alternative during Lent.
During Easter in Argentina, sweets are a big part of the celebration.
Families exchange hollow chocolate eggs called "huevos de Pascua."
For a heartier treat, try "Rosca de Pascua," a ring-shaped bread cake with a creamy filling and toppings like fruits and nuts.
You can buy these or make your own. If you're in Bariloche during Easter, check out their Chocolate Festival, where they give out lots of chocolate eggs and feature the world's largest chocolate bar! It's a fun event you shouldn't miss.
Special Easter Celebrations in Argentina
Easter in Argentina is a time of celebration and joy, filled with unique events rooted in faith and tradition, per Latin Adventures.
From religious processions to colorful festivals, there's something for everyone to enjoy during this special holiday.
One iconic event is the 'Via Crucis' or 'WayWay of the Cross' procession, reenacting Jesus' final journey to Calvary on Good Friday.
Thousands gather to witness this dramatic portrayal, featuring actors in biblical costumes carrying crosses and statues depicting scenes from the Passion of Christ, a powerful display of devotion.
For a lighter celebration, various festivals are held throughout the country.
In Buenos Aires, Feria de Mataderos showcases traditional Argentine culture with music, dance, artisanal products, and delicious food stalls.
Fiesta Nacional del Chivito in La Pampa province celebrates rural life with parades, rodeo shows, and roasted goat meat, a staple during Easter.
Another fascinating custom is the 'Burning of Judas' on Easter Sunday, where effigies of Judas Iscariot are burned in public squares, symbolizing Jesus' betrayal.
Accompanied by music and dancing, it creates a festive atmosphere as Argentines bid farewell to Lent.
Festive events include street fairs, music performances, traditional dances, and games. The annual Chocolate Festival in Bariloche is a highlight, offering sweet treats, egg hunts, and chocolate-making workshops.
Argentina Easter tradition blends faith, family, and festivity for a memorable experience.
READ MORE: Lenten Season in Latin America
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Written by: Ross Key
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