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Winter 2015

Celebration

Uzhgorod in Ukraine April 06, 2017 Exhibition of Easter eggs

Easter in Ukraine, know as Velykden. The holiday marks the resurrection of Jesus Christ. In preparation for Easter, Ukrainian families participate in Paskha. Many Ukrainians clin their homes, which symbolizes a fresh start. One of the central customs is baking tradional Easter bread.

Paska in Ukraine is not just bread. It is a sacred symbol of Easter, carrying deep traditions and meaning.

Traditional Ukrainian paska is made from yeast dough with the addition of eggs, milk, butter, and sugar, often flavored with raisins, vanilla, or citrus zest for aroma.

The process of baking paska is very special, it is often accompanied by prayers and somtimes even songs as it is belived that the paska will turn out well if there is peace and quiet in the home.

Some families kept a piece of blessed paska until the next Easter, believing it would protect the home from harm.

Egg decorating , or pysanca, is another iconic Easter tradition in Ukraine.

On Easter Sunday , families attend early morning church services, where they greet each other with the joiful words “Krystos Voskres” (Krist is Risen).

Easter celebration continues for several days, as Ukrainians visit friends and family.