Easter superstitions in Hungary

Easter is one of the most important celebrations in Christian countries. We’ve previously published an article about Hungary’s beautiful variation of different folkways and traditions that are connected to this festivity. Easter Sunday is dominated by traditions connected to religious ceremonies, while Easter Monday is the time for family get-togethers and folkways. But did you know that many superstitions can also be connected to Easter? Nlcafe.hu collected some of these superstitions and we wanted to share them with you!

People have always been attracted by magical imponderables so it’s no surprise that different superstitions and beliefs ended up being associated with them. Superstitions are not always accompanied by negative feelings; indeed, people frequently hope that their fate would change for the better with certain rituals.

Let’s go on with superstitions connected to Easter celebrations. The 40 day fast is the preparation for purgation and salvation. The Holy Week, before the celebration, starts with Palm Sunday, when Jesus stepped across the gate of Jerusalem according to the Bible. As tradition has it, it is prohibited to work on Palm Sunday; however jollities are permitted all the more. Planting flowers doesn’t count as work and according to superstition, if you sow seeds on Palm Sunday, your flowers will be much more scented than others’.

The magical spring catkin is also girdled with many superstitions. For instance, Greeks believe that if they put it into the spout of the gutter, it will protect them from lightning. The blessed Easter catkin is thought to have curing powers. It is believed that if you swallow a piece of catkin when getting out of the church, then you’ll be protected from stomach issues and sore throat. And if Easter falls into March, then it is not rewarding to lend it to someone.

See our photo gallery of how Easter traditions look like in Hungary!

According to another popular folkway, it is worth wearing new clothes at Easter because you’ll be fortunate in the whole year. On the other hand, consuming honey in any form is not suggested at Easter because it brings misfortune. If you are brave enough then you should try bathing in cold water on the first day of Easter because it is believed that you’ll be fresh and healthy in the whole year. This might be the origin of the famous Hungarian tradition, sprinkling the girls with water.