Celebrating Easter Sunday in St. Louis: Traditions and Festivities

Discover how families in St. Louis celebrate Easter Sunday with barbecues, church services, and joyful Easter egg hunts. Learn about the significance of this holiday and its traditions.

Many years ago, as a child, I was captivated by the Easter holiday. The idea of our Savior rising from the dead, the colorful eggs we would dye, little bunny rabbits hiding treasures, and the endless chocolate treats were all so enchanting.

Now, as an adult, the excitement has faded. Fasting for Lent, having ashes placed on my forehead by the priest, and dressing in my Sunday best just don’t carry the same joy anymore.

That said, I can share some good news: I’ve been sober since November 2024, and I’m looking forward to enjoying a cold drink after Easter. So, I feel like I’ve done my part. Easter typically falls in April, specifically on the third Sunday of the month. The last time it was in March was on March 27, 2016.

Before we delve deeper into Easter Sunday, let me share what many people do to celebrate. In St. Louis, you’ll find families barbecuing, visiting loved ones, attending church services, and hosting Easter egg hunts in the parks.

Easter Sunday is a significant holiday for many people around the world, particularly Christians, as it celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Traditions and customs can vary widely by culture and region, but common activities include:

1. Religious Services: Many Christians attend church services on Easter Sunday, which often include special prayers, hymns, and sermons focused on the resurrection.
2. Easter Egg Hunts: In many cultures, children participate in Easter egg hunts, where they search for eggs that are often hidden in yards or parks. Eggs may be decorated and filled with candy or small toys.
3. Family Gatherings: Easter is often a time for family reunions and gatherings, where loved ones come together for meals and celebrations.
4. Festive Meals: Many families prepare special meals to celebrate Easter, which can include traditional dishes that vary by culture. Common foods might include lamb, ham, or egg dishes, along with seasonal vegetables and desserts.
5. Easter Baskets: Children often receive Easter baskets filled with chocolates, candies, and small gifts. These baskets are typically given in the morning of Easter Sunday.
6. Springtime Activities: Since Easter falls in the spring season in many parts of the world, people often engage in outdoor activities, enjoying the warmer weather and blooming flowers.
7. Decorating: Many people decorate their homes with Easter-themed decorations, such as eggs, bunnies, and spring flowers.
8. Acts of Charity: Some people choose to focus on giving back during Easter by participating in charitable activities or community service.
10. As noted by Explore St. Louis, here are some unique holiday options for those looking to try something different.
11. Looking for a fun night out? St. Louis’ entertainment districts – think Ballpark Village, City Foundry STL, St. Louis Union Station and Westport Plaza – are your ticket to fully immersed fun. If you’re looking for neighborhoods with a little bit of everything, head to the Central West End, Soulard, the Delmar Loop and The Grove. No matter where you go, you won’t be far from live music venues and top-notch bars. St. Louis also has a number of casinos that offer great gaming, incredible dining and electric experiences for those wishing to try their luck while they’re in the Gateway City.
12. Union Station:
13. Climb Aboard at St. Louis Union Station
14. In its heyday, St. Louis Union Station was one of the largest and busiest passenger rail terminals in the world. Today, it’s a source of endless entertainment for residents and visitors alike. The stunning complex houses more than 13,000 animals at the St. Louis Aquarium, the 200-foot St. Louis Wheel, a carousel, an 18-hole miniature golf course, a ropes course and more. The 3D light show in the Grand Hall plays on the hour, and restaurants such as The Soda Fountain and The Train Shed will keep you fueled for infinite fun. When it’s time to rest your head, you don’t have to go far. St. Louis Union Station Hotel boasts timeless décor and modern amenities.

Courtesy of Explore St. Louis//@dont_tellmym0m

Ball Park Village:

Courtesy of Explore St. Louis/@pujitha_bandi_pilot

The Gateway Arch is one of my suggestions:

For more on Explore St. Louis’ ideas, click the link.

Easter Sunday is the culmination of a series of significant events observed in Christianity during Holy Week, which commemorates the last week of Jesus Christ’s life on Earth. Here’s a brief overview of the key events leading up to Easter Sunday.

1. Lent

Duration: Lent is a 40-day period of fasting, prayer, and penance leading up to Easter, starting on Ash Wednesday and ending on Holy Saturday.

Purpose: It symbolizes the 40 days Jesus spent fasting in the desert.

2. Palm Sunday

Event: This day marks Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem, where he was greeted by crowds waving palm branches and proclaiming him as king.

Significance: It signifies the beginning of Holy Week and the recognition of Jesus as the Messiah.

3. Holy Monday to Holy Wednesday

Events: Various events and teachings occur during these days, including:

• Jesus cleansing the temple.
• Teaching in the temple.
• The anointing of Jesus by Mary of Bethany.
• Significance: These days reflect Jesus’ final teachings and actions before his crucifixion.

4. Maundy Thursday

• Events:
  • The Last Supper: Jesus shares a final meal with his disciples, during which he institutes the Eucharist (Communion).
  • The Washing of the Disciples’ Feet: Demonstrating humility and service.
  • Jesus’ Agony in the Garden: He prays in the Garden of Gethsemane, where he experiences deep anguish over his impending crucifixion.
• Significance: It emphasizes themes of sacrifice and the establishment of a new covenant.

5. Good Friday

• Events:
  • Jesus’ Arrest: Betrayed by Judas Iscariot.
  • Trial: Jesus is tried before the Sanhedrin, Pontius Pilate, and Herod.
  • Crucifixion: Jesus is sentenced to death and crucified.
  • Death: He dies on the cross, and his body is taken down and laid in a tomb.
• Significance: This day commemorates the suffering and death of Jesus, reflecting on the significance of his sacrifice for humanity’s sins.

6. Holy Saturday

• Events: The day is observed in somber reflection and mourning. Jesus’ body remains in the tomb.
• Significance: It is a day of waiting and preparation for the celebration of the resurrection.

7. Easter Sunday

• Event: The resurrection of Jesus from the dead, celebrated as the foundation of Christian faith.
• Significance: It signifies victory over sin and death, offering believers the hope of eternal life.

Conclusion

These events form the narrative leading up to Easter Sunday, each holding deep theological significance in the Christian tradition. The entire Holy Week serves to prepare believers spiritually for the celebration of the resurrection of Jesus.

Easter Sunday, St. Louis celebrations, family traditions, Easter egg hunt, church services, resurrection of Jesus Christ

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