Easter magic in the snow
Easter – from a traditional point of view – Is not just a single event, but a series of days during which various customs celebrate an important event for all Christians around the world: the resurrection of Christ. Historically, many rituals in the regions of Ski amadé are of Christian origin and these customs have become an integral part of life in the region.
Even though Easter has been largely commercialized today, it has not lost its charm and has become a popular tradition throughout the year for many people, even those without a religious background.
The Easter week starts on Palm Sunday, a week before Easter Sunday, when many families tie palm bushes from a variety of plants, decorate them with colorful ribbons and have them blessed in the churches, which is supposed to prevent mischief. As children, however, we loved another custom on this day: whoever comes last to the breakfast table on Palm Sunday is the “palm donkey” for the rest of the day.
We continue with Maundy Thursday. In Austria we call it “Green Thursday”, this is why many families eat spinach or some other green dishes on this day. At the evening mass on that day, all the bells in the Catholic churches ring out, which is popularly known as "all the bells fly to Rome". Afterwards, you can no longer hear them until the night of Easter Sunday.
This gave rise to a custom that is particularly popular among children and young people on Good Friday and Saturday: ratcheting. In the past it was just the ratchet boys, but in some areas of Salzburg all children now go from house to house and make noise with a ratchet, often one they have built themselves. Originally, this was used to indicate the prayer times, so they took over the task of the church bells until Easter Sunday.
On Holy Saturday, many prepare the Easter snack for Easter Sunday and have the food consecrated in the church. A very special custom is celebrated in the region Lungau on this day: the Easter fire. Young people build wooden towers up to 12 meters high, which are lit in the evening with the Peace Light.
And finally Easter Sunday, when, as in many parts of Europe, young and old look for colorful eggs, chocolate bunnies and Easter nests.
In addition to the traditional customs, Ski amadé offers many events as part of the Easter festival.
In the Hochkönig ski area between Maria Alm – Dienten – Mühlbach you can find filled Easter baskets. The nests will be refilled while stocks last, so hit the slopes early and good luck with your search.
Lots of fun and games are also offered at the ski area Planai: you can craft Easter bunnies or go on an Easter hunt in Hopsiland to take a souvenir photo with the guest of honour, Hopsi the mascot.
In St. Johann you can visit several events at the same time. During the JoKiWo, a diverse program is offered, which inspires children and young people alike. Technology fans have the opportunity to look behind the scenes of the mountain railway and the Austria Freeski Days stop at the Snowpark Alpendorf. The end of the Easter events is marked by the children's Olympics followed by an award ceremony.
At the Easter bunny party on the Shuttleberg in Flachauwinkl you can meet one or two bunnies on skis and snowboards and take part in the Easter nest hunt.
The Easter bunny is out and about on Hauser Kaibling on Maundy Thursday and hides 200 Easter eggs with great surprises on and under the slopes.
All in all, Ski amadé offers a mix of skiing, tradition and celebrations at Easter, with something for everyone. It's a great opportunity to spend time with family and friends and enjoy spring in the mountains
