Spiritual Traditions: don’t forget that more than 90% of Romanians are Orthodox Christians.

While there is a mix of religions in other countries, in Romania, more than 90% of the population is Orthodox, meaning they will observe this celebration as well. There are two main symbols to notice here:

• The Holy Light: Witness the moving ceremony on Easter Eve, where Romanians gather at church for a midnight service. As the clock strikes twelve, the church is plunged into darkness, followed by the priest emerging with a lit candle, symbolizing the light of Christ’s resurrection. The congregation then lights their candles from the flame, passing it on, creating a breathtaking spectacle.
• Church Services: Easter Sunday sees Romanians dressed in their finest attire, attending church services filled with joyous hymns and prayers celebrating the Resurrection.

Festive Delights – whenever visiting Romania, don’t forget to ask for traditional Romanian food at the restaurants, especially during this time.

Romanians are very friendly with their guests. If you happen to dine with a Romanian family during this holiday, chances are the table is filled with festive delights. Also, if you dine at a restaurant, ask for these Easter delights during this time of the year; chances are they have them.

• Easter Feast: Romanian Easter tables overflow with delicious traditional foods. Expect roasted lamb, sausages, various kinds of cheese, and the show’s star: Pasca, a sweet bread with a rich, creamy cheese filling. Cozonac, a fluffy, braided cake, is another delightful treat, but this one is also met at Christmas and other religious celebrations.
• Painted Eggs: A vibrant symbol of Easter, Romanians decorate eggs with intricate designs using natural dyes like onion skins and beetroot. These colourful eggs are used in playful tapping competitions, where the unbroken egg signifies good luck.

Experience Romanian Easter the way you should!

We recommend you visit the traditional villages, especially Moldova and Transylvania, the two historical regions in Romania that still preserve this tradition.

• Visit Villages: Immerse yourself in the authentic spirit by visiting Romanian villages during Easter. Witness traditional practices, witness the vibrant folk costumes, and enjoy the warm hospitality of the locals.
• Sample the Cuisine: Indulge in the delicious Easter feast. Many restaurants and guesthouses offer special Easter menus, allowing you to savour the unique flavours of the season.
• Embrace the Joy: The Romanian Easter celebrates life, hope, and renewal. Feel the infectious energy of the crowds, the warmth of family gatherings, and the beauty of age-old traditions coming alive.

Remember that Easter is a deeply religious holiday in Romania. While enjoying the festivities, be mindful of dressing modestly when visiting churches and respecting local customs.

With its blend of spiritual traditions, delicious food, and unique customs, Easter in Romania offers an unforgettable cultural experience for any visitor seeking a glimpse into the heart of this beautiful country.

The post Experiencing the Joy of Easter in Romania: A Guide for Tourists appeared first on Valahia.News.

As the first whispers of spring begin to caress the frostbitten landscapes of Romania, a vibrant tradition steeped in mythology and adorned with the promise of warmer days comes to life. Known as “Mărțișor,” this ancient custom marks the rebirth of nature and the onset of spring. It is a celebration that encapsulates the joy of a new beginning and weaves a rich tapestry of cultural identity, nostalgia and hopes into the hearts of the Romanian people.

At the heart of this tradition lies the “Mărțișor”—a small, decorative item often fashioned into a jewelry piece, such as a brooch or bracelet. This adornment typically features a red and white intertwined cord, symbolizing the dual forces of life: the white represents purity and the snow’s retreat, and the red embodies love, vitality, and the sun’s resurgence. These colours, deeply embedded in Romanian folklore, are believed to bring strength, health, and prosperity to those who wear them.

Mărțișor [mərˈt͡ʃiʃor] comes from March (Martie in Romanian), and it is the token symbolizing the arrival of spring.

The origins of Mărțișor are shrouded in the mists of time, with roots that intertwine with the ancient Roman and Dacian civilizations that once flourished in these lands. Legends tell of a time when the sun descended to the earth in the guise of a beautiful maiden, only to be captured by an evil dragon. It was not until a brave hero defeated the dragon that the sun was released, heralding the end of winter’s dominion. The drops of blood from the battle melted the snow, allowing the earth to bloom again. This mythic tale is thought to be symbolized by the red and white threads of the Mărțișor, a reminder of the eternal struggle between darkness and light, cold and warmth, death and rebirth.

Traditionally, on the 1st of March, Romanians exchange Mărțișoare as tokens of love and appreciation. It is customary for men to present them to women, although the practice has evolved to encompass exchanges between friends, family members, and colleagues, irrespective of gender. The Mărțișor is worn pinned to one’s clothing or tied around the wrist from the 1st of March until the end of the month. Some adhere to the practice of tying the Mărțișor to a blooming tree’s branch once the wearer has spotted the first signs of spring to ensure good luck and hasten spring’s arrival.

For those who want to experience what Romanian Martisor is, we recommend they visit the Traditional Martisor Fair at the Romanian Peasant Museum in Bucharest.

In recent years, the Mărțișor has transformed, with artisans and craftspeople infusing modern design elements into their creations while maintaining the symbolic essence of the tradition. From intricate silver pendants to handcrafted clay figurines, the diversity of Mărțișors available today reflects a harmonious blend of the past and present, a testament to the enduring relevance of this cherished tradition.

As Romania embraces the arrival of spring each year, the Mărțișor remains a poignant reminder of the country’s rich cultural heritage and the unbreakable bond between nature and humanity. It is a tradition that transcends the mere change of seasons, encapsulating hopes, dreams, and the perennial renewal of life itself. In the celebration of Mărțișor, we find a beautiful expression of human connection, resilience, and the joyous affirmation of life’s cyclical dance.

The post What Is Martisor – Romanian Spring Tradition appeared first on Valahia.News.

Dragobete, often called the “Day of Love,” is celebrated on February 24th. It’s a day when the air is filled with the burgeoning warmth of impending spring and the joyous expressions of love. Unlike its Western counterpart, Dragobete is imbued with indigenous customs, folklore, and a profound connection to nature, making it uniquely Romanian.

The rituals during Dragobete

The legend behind Dragobete is as enchanting as the traditions it inspires. It tells the tale of a mythical figure, Dragobete himself, often depicted as a handsome youth or a deity akin to Cupid, embodying the very essence of youthful love and hope. He is said to oversee the animal kingdom’s mating season, a symbol of budding life and fertility that mirrors the agricultural rebirth across the land.

On this day, young men and women gather early morning to search for spring flowers in the forests. More than a mere floral hunt, this act symbolizes the quest for love, beauty, and renewal. It is believed that participating in Dragobete customs ensures happiness and love throughout the year, making it a day of joyous significance for both the young and the young at heart.

The rituals of Dragobete are as diverse as the regions of Romania itself. In some villages, the day is marked by playful chases among the unmarried, where if a boy catches a girl and she likes him, a kiss seals their participation in the day’s festivities, symbolizing mutual affection and the blossoming of new relationships. It’s a tradition that fosters love and strengthens community ties.

But Dragobete is not only for the unmarried. Married couples celebrate the day by showing affection, ensuring their love remains as vibrant and enduring as the spring soon to blanket the land in colour and life. It’s a day when love is openly celebrated in all forms, transcending age and marital status.

The celebration of Dragobete also encompasses a respect for nature, an element deeply woven into the fabric of the day. It’s a time when harming animals or plants is avoided, reflecting the harmonious relationship between humans and the natural world, a reminder of the interconnectedness of all life.

In the digital age, where holidays often become commercialized, Dragobete stands as a testament to the enduring power of cultural traditions and the importance of celebrating love in meaningful, communal, and deeply rooted ways in the natural world. It invites us to pause, reflect, and revel in love and renewal’s simple, profound joy.

As Dragobete continues to weave its magic across Romania, its message of love, respect for nature, and community resonates globally. Dragobete offers a vibrant reminder of the beauty of tradition and the universal language of love in a world yearning for connection and authenticity.

In embracing Dragobete, Romania celebrates love and showcases the rich cultural heritage that makes it a unique and enchanting country. It’s a tradition that captivates the heart, ignites the spirit, and inspires anyone who learns of it to cherish love, not just on February 24th but every day of the year.

So, as we share this story of Dragobete, let’s remember the essence of this beautiful tradition: love, in all its forms, is worth celebrating. Let’s carry the spirit of Dragobete with us, spreading love, kindness, and the joy of renewal wherever we go.

The post Dragobete: The Heartbeat of Romania’s Love Tradition appeared first on Valahia.News.

Romania, nestled in the heart of Europe, unveils a captivating tapestry of Christmas traditions, a blend of ancient customs and modern celebrations that captivate the hearts and palates of visitors. From the enchanting carols that fill the air to the incredible aromas of traditional dishes, Christmas in Romania is an immersive experience that enchants you.

Preparation and Fasting: Setting the Stage for Christmas

In Romania, most of the population is Christian, orthodox or catholic. This means that Romanians usually take religious celebrations seriously.

The Christmas celebrations in Romania commence with the 40-day fasting period known as ‘Postul Crăciunului,’ which begins on November 14th. During this time, Romanians abstain from meat, eggs, and dairy products, emphasizing the holiday’s spiritual significance. This period of abstinence not only cleanses the body but also prepares the mind and soul for the upcoming festivities.

As the fasting period concludes, Romanians will indulge in an abudnant feast and enjoy Christmas to its fullest.

Anticipation and Christmas Eve: The Festive Vigil

Christmas Eve, known as ‘Noaptea de Ajun’ in Romania, is a time for family gatherings, traditional carols, and the culmination of Christmas preparations. Families traditionally gather around the table, adorned with many homemade delicacies, including sarmale (stuffed cabbage rolls), piftie (jellied pork or chicken) or cozonac (sweet bread with walnuts, Turkish delight and other delicious ingredients).

During Christmas Eve dinner, children eagerly await the arrival of the ‘Colindetători’, groups of carolers who traditionally visit homes, singing traditional Christmas songs and receiving small gifts.

The lively caroling adds to the festive atmosphere and strengthens the bonds of the community.

The Festive Day: Christmas Day and Beyond

Romanians attend church services on Christmas Day, seeking blessings and spiritual guidance. The day is spent in family gatherings, exchanging gifts, and enjoying the company of loved ones. The Christmas table remains laden with delicacies, and the spirit of joy and camaraderie permeates the air.

The Christmas celebrations continue throughout the week, marked by traditional games, caroling, and gatherings. Children and adults participate in the lively festivities, creating lasting memories and embracing the spirit of Christmas.

Delicious Delights: A Culinary Journey Through Christmas Traditions

The culinary traditions of Romanian Christmas are a symphony of flavors and aromas, tantalizing the senses and transporting visitors to a world of festive indulgence. Here are some of the must-try dishes described by our partner platform promoting Bucharest.

SARMALE CU MĂMĂLIGĂ (Mince Rolled In Pickle Cabbage With Polenta)

You will find SARMALE in every traditional restaurant you enter. They are a culinary preparation of minced meat (usually pork, beef, sheep, poultry, or even fish), mixed with rice and other ingredients, wrapped in rolled cabbage leaves. They are usually served with polenta and cream. To be tasty, the SARMALES are boiled in a cast-iron cauldron or a clay pot over low heat. It is considered that if consumed after „staying” 2-3 days, they will have a unique flavor.

POMANA PORCULUI (Pork Feast)

POMANA PORCULUI (Pork Feast) is an ancient custom. This is the Thanksgiving table for the help received in slaughtering the pig from relatives, neighbors, or friends and is offered after the work is completed by the host. Pork Feast is obtained by frying pieces of meat (muscle, liver, bacon, ribs, jaw, representing all parts of the slaughtered animal) in fat. Serve with polenta and a glass of wine. An honorable meal!

PLĂCINTA (Romanian Pie)

The pies are a pastry product with an old tradition in Romania. Romanians eat cheese, raisin pie, apple pie, cabbage pie, and meat pie, and the list can continue. Although they differ from country to country, pies are desserts made of dough, which hides a sweet or salty filling.

Regardless of your filling, PLĂCINTA (Romanian pie) is a delight. You can find them in any traditional restaurant or pastry shops where you will meet them almost everywhere. Eaten hot Romanian pies will brighten your day!

COZONAC (Romanian Easter & Christmas Sweet Bread)

The favorite dessert of the Romanians, the COZONAC, has a long history. Cozonac’s origin is bread, and leavening and baking techniques have evolved. 

Romanian tradition says that if you have a COZONAC on the table, you are celebrating. This is how, during the holidays, Romanian housewives start kneading the Cozonac dough. Whether filled with walnuts and cocoa or Turkish delights, the Romanian COZONAC is a must-have dessert for Christmas or Easter. 

Christmas in Romania is a captivating blend of ancient customs, modern celebrations, and tantalizing flavors. From the enchanting carols to the bountiful tables, the spirit of Christmas is infectious, drawing visitors into the heart of Romanian traditions. Immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere, savor the culinary delights, and experience the heartwarming hospitality of the Romanian people.

The post Christmas in Romania: Embracing Traditions, Flavors, and Festive Spirit appeared first on Valahia.News.

This year, the Romanian Weekend at the Wharf is organized with the support of the County Council from Maramures, Romania. This is why so many folklore bands and traditional artists come from this region.

From folklore music and dances to food and pottery, the American people immerse in Romanian culture and traditions, which is the most efficient invitation to visit Romania.

The festival is at its second edition, and the Romanian Ambassador to the US mentioned that for the Romanian TV station Aleph News.

This festival is already in its second edition. We’re returning to Washington, DC, even bigger and bolder than last year. A vibrant space where Americans come to relax. We will have three days of extravagance. A festival that celebrates the diversity of Romanian culture with music, dance, concerts and craft shows

H.E. Andrei Muraru, Romanian Ambassador to the US

This sort of event indeed promotes Romania abroad. After terrible failures, as with Romania’s participation at the New York Tourism Fair in 2022, the country has learned how to promote its cultural and touristic values.

Hopefully, the American people will start considering Romania as a travel destination. The primary travel operators in the US, such as Pleasant Holidays and Journese, have started including Bucharest as a leisure destination, which is a significant step towards this goal. Let’s hope Romania will be what it used to be – one of the preferred destinations of international tourists.

As always, we recommend English-speaking tourists check our partner platform, the only travel platform to promote Bucharest abroad: Visit Bucharest. This offers plenty of information for anyone considering visiting Romania’s capital city.

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This season invites you to discover other fairytale regions of Romania through the British journalist’s travel diary.

According to Radio Romania, the recordings began three weeks ago in Transylvania and continued in Moldova. Since July 16, the producers have been filming at the Danube Delta in Dobrogea, the southeastern part of Romania.

Charlie Ottley also produced documentaries like Wild Carpathia (2011) and Flavours of Romania (2017), which made Romania’s taste, culture and nature known abroad. However, the Danube Delta is not a region seen for the first time through the camera lenses of Charlie Ottley’s team. The Wild Danube project launched last year brought to light the beauty of the Danube Delta in winter, inviting the audience on a remarkable journey through the enchanted and endangered water world.

What is praiseworthy about Charlie Ottley’s projects is that through these documentaries that emphasize the beauties of Romania, the British journalist also highlights the irregularities in the country in a way that raises the alarm to both the authorities and the Romanians, trying to protect Romania’s national treasures.

I think it is an exceptional moment now because we had a difficult period with COVID and now, during this period, as we know, it is war, that is why the series “Flavors of Romania” will help the tourism industry. I can’t reveal too many secrets, but in my opinion, the Danube Delta is a wonderful place, and whenever you discover it comes with something new, something that delights you, and there are a lot of stories that have not been told so far.

Charlie Ottley

Nine episodes will make up the second season, which will revisit the nation’s historic locales to “capture Romania’s spirit with new stories, flavours, sounds, and adventures.”

Although of British origin, Charlie Ottley is among the few producers of such documentaries who managed to promote Romania at such a high level. He saw the tourist potential of Romania, and the work behind the spectacular images of Romania is to be applauded and encouraged. Each episode of these documentaries represents a gate to the knowledge of the Romanian heart, flavoured by traditions, customs and places of an entire preserved history waiting to be revealed.

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”The peony flower, from the Paeoniaceae family, is declared as the National Flower of Romania. In order to mark the National Flower of Romania, a Peony Festival, a horticultural event, is organized annually, at the national and local level, in which they will be exhibited in arrangements landscaping and ornamental different species of peony. On this occasion, in the framework of scientific symposia, the biological and ornamental characteristics of different species of peony, especially the wild ones, will be presented”.

Law Representatives

The Bucharest Faculty of Horticulture has started an online petition supporting the Peony as the Romanian National Flower and Floral Symbol bill. The idea is not new, but similar initiatives have had no success so far.

The Bucharest Faculty of Horticulture recognizes that most countries have a national flower as an element of their identity, closely linked to the geographical, cultural, and economic space in state symbols such as flags, coats of arms, etc.

Examples include the tulip for the Netherlands, Turkey, and Hungary, the chrysanthemum for the Imperial Family of Japan, the rose for the United States, the United Kingdom, and Bulgaria, and so on. In Romania, the idea of ​​a national flower has been outlined since the reign of King Carol I, being made, over time, several proposals: rosehip, cornflower, peony (…) But none has been legislated, so so that our country is today in the situation of not having a national flower.

The initiators of the petition

The peony includes all five species that grow spontaneously on the Romanian territory from Banat to Dobrogea and Oltenia to Transylvania and Moldova: Paeonia peregrina, Paeonia tenuifolia, Paeonia triternata, Paeonia mascula, Paeonia officinalis, ssp. Banatica and three cultivated species: Paeonia officinalis, Paeonia lactyflora, Paeonia suffruticosa.

Top Ten reasons why peony should become Romania’s national flower

According to Ziare.com, there are solid arguments why the peony should be the national flower of Romania. Here is the top ten reasons why:

1. Five species of a peony grow spontaneously in Romania in nature reserves protected by law, having a great biological and ornamental potential;

2. In addition to spontaneous species, in the country, there are 3 cultivated species with over 100 varieties;

3. In several regions of the country, peony holidays and festivals are organized annually in May;

4. Peony plants have great decorative potential, being indispensable in parks, private and public gardens;

5. The peony is specially cultivated for use in bouquets and floral arrangements.

6. Because of its high ecological adaptability, the peony can be grown almost anywhere in the country, from the plains to the mountains.

7. Peony flowers are very popular throughout the country, serving as inspiration for Romanian folklore, music, literature, and art.

8. Peony is the first or last name of over 100,000 Romanians.

9. The peony flower is often associated with health and physical and spiritual beauty in popular consciousness.

10. Peony has been valued as a plant with therapeutic properties in Romanian folk medicine since ancient times.

Photo source: REZERVATIA NATURALA – Bujorul de Stepa – Zau De Campie Facebook Page

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The Mărțișor Fair promotes and recontextualizes the celebration of a custom that in the last century has received a series of transformations, predominantly in the urban space. The fair brings to the public’s attention a rich offer through the uniqueness, creativity and diversity of the traditional mărțișor and its encouraging artistic ingenuity and craftsmanship.

What is Mărțișor?

Mărțișor is a celebration of spring held on every March 1 in Romania. It represents a small object with a red and white cord, and it is usually gifted to a particular person as a lucky charm or a symbol of nature revival. Women and girls are receiving mărțișor in Romania and carry them during March as a sign of spring arrival.

Mărțișor fair event

Mărțișor fair event is a way to celebrate spring in Romanian Style for the tourist who yearns for knowing more about Romanian culture and its beautiful traditions.

At this event, the participants can make their unique mărțișor from the manufactured and recycled object that uses natural materials. Also, The National Museum of Romanian Peasant, where the fair is located, can be visited.

Mărțișor fair is one of the most anticipated events of spring in Bucharest. It is indeed a creative way to celebrate spring in the Romanian style. Foreign tourists are very intrigued by our traditions, including Mărțișor, and they are delighted to create their own souvenir here in Romania. So, Mărțișor fair is a unique attraction for many.

Adriana G. editor at VisitBucharest.Today

Help a humanitarian cause and enjoy homemade sweets

Every year, at the Mărțișor Fair, schools, foundations, associations, organizations are present to carry out humanitarian actions for children and support disadvantaged groups. The participants at the event can donate to a humanitarian cause. While they do a good deed, they can reward themselves with the best homemade dishes, gingerbread, cakes, jams, pickles, dehydrated fruits and herbal teas available there.

Event tickets

The approximative Euro price of the entrance ticket to the fair: adults -EUR 2; retirees-EUR 1; pupils and students, holders of the Euro 26 card, up to 30 years old, adults with medium or mild disabilities –EUR 1.

Tickets can also be purchased online from the website: https://booktes.com/bilet/targul-martisorului-la-muzeul-national-al-taranului-roman.

If you need more details about the event, check the visitbucharest.today platform for more information.

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This is why, when visiting Romania, don’t be surprised that the time the locals celebrate Easter doesn’t fit your Catholic or Protestant calendar time, but the Orthodox one. 

Easter Celebration or Resurrection of Jesus is one of the greatest religious holidays for Christians. During Easter, Christians celebrate Jesus Resurrection. Easter symbolizes joy, light and hope, being a good opportunity to spend time with family and dear friends.

In Romania, Easter is marked by many traditions and customs. Moreover, each region of the country is defined by particular regional customs.

Romanian Easter Traditions: Easter Lent

Preparations for Easter begin with Easter Lent. This is the longest fast of the year, lasting six weeks. It is a harsh and difficult fast, especially during the Holy Week. Lent refers to the 40-day and 40-night Lent held by Jesus Christ before the preaching of the gospel.

During Lent, Christians do not eat meat, eggs, fish, cheese, milk or any other food of animal origin. During the 40 days there are two days when Christians are allowed to eat fish. Throughout Lent, Christians are urged to pray.

In the week before Easter, Christians go to church to confess and share. Confession involves confession of sins and repentance. Also this week, the Denials are celebrated, the most beautiful and uplifting religious services for Christians.

Easter Symbols in Romania: Decorating and Painting Easter Eggs

The tradition of painting Easter eggs comes from a pre-Christian custom, being present in both European and Asian peoples. In Roman times, red eggs were offered on the occasion of the spring equinox.

In the Christian tradition, the painting of Easter eggs is linked to several legends. The most common of these says that the Mother of God came to mourn her crucified son on the cross. She also brought a basket of eggs that she wanted to give to those who were torturing her son, but they made fun of her gesture. Grieving, the Mother of God then placed the basket of eggs next to the cross on which her son was crucified. The blood that flowed from the Savior’s wounds began to color the eggs. Seeing this, he said, “From now on you will make red and variegated eggs in remembrance of my crucifixion, as I did today.”

In some parts of the country, the painting of Easter eggs has become pure art. Thus, Romanian painted eggs have conquered the whole world through the beauty and complexity of the models. Among the most common motifs are the cross, the fork, the fir tree, the oak leaf, floral or zoomorphic motifs. Unlike usual red eggs, painted Easter eggs are not eaten, but they have a purely decorative role. Sometimes the painted eggs are drilled and the egg whites and yolks are removed. In Bucovina, Northern Romania, however, it is said that these empty eggs should not be kept in the house because “the devil is hiding inside them”.

In the first three days of Easter, the Christians knock Easter eggs. Some legends say that those who will knock their red eggs during these days will meet in the other world. The one whose egg is cracked in the knocking custom, must give it to the winner. Otherwise, he will eat the rotten egg after death.

Romanian Easter Traditions: The Religious Service

During Easter night, the night of the Resurrection, people go to church and attend the religious service. It is said that those who do not go to that religious service will get sick and spend the whole year in trouble.

During the service there is a procession around the church. Christians hold a candle in their hand, which they light from the priest’s flame. At the end of the service, each Christian receives a piece of Pasca (traditional Easter food) soaked in wine from the priest. Pasca is the first food to be eaten on Easter day.

Easter Symbols in Romania: The Holy Light Candle

As we said, during the Resurrection service, each Christian lights a candle from the priest’s flame. In traditional terms, the process is called “taking the light”.

Easter candle is the symbol of Christ’s Resurrection. In other words, it is the symbol of the victory of good over evil. Every Christian will try to get home with a lighted candle. During the year, this candle will be lit again in times of trouble, illness, upset or even in bad weather.

In Romania the Easter candles are lit with the Holy Light which is brought during that day directly from Jerusalem. The Holy Light is air transported to all the churches in the country such as, at midnight, all the Christian to know they lit their candles from the Holy Light in Jerusalem.

Romanian Easter Traditions: Easter Traditional Food

Romanian cuisine is extremely varied and tasty. Romanians, gourmets by nature, do not shy away on this occasion from the rich meals.

When it comes to the Romanians’ Easter meals, the lamb is a must. Prepared in many ways, from steak, to soup or stew, lamb is the star of traditional Romanian Easter meals.

Along with the lamb dishes, red eggs are also present, as well as Pasca and Cozonac. Pasca is made of leavened dough, filled with cheese and has a circular shape with braids on the edge, and it is sweet. Cozonac is also a dessert made from leavened dough filled, most often with walnuts and cocoa or just turkish delight.

Easter in Romania: Good to Know as an Expat in Romania

• For Christians, Easter always falls on a Sunday
• As the eggs knock, the one who strikes says “Christ is Risen,” and the other christian says, “He is Risen Indeed.”
• Monday and Tuesday are the second and third day of Easter, usually national holidays
• The week after Easter is called Illuminated Week because, rising from the dead, Jesus enlightened the world
• The week before Easter is called Holy Week
• Until the Ascension, for 40 days, Christians greet each other with “Christ is Risen”, the answer to the greeting being “True is Risen”
• The symbols of Easter in Romanian are: red eggs, Pasca, lamb and lighted candle

Do you want to spend a nice Easter in Romania? Nothing else is more pleasant! Romanians are a friendly and welcoming people and they will most certainly welcome your presence during this holiday. Also, most of the accommodation places, from hotels to rural guest houses celebrate Easter in a very traditional way. Blend in the crowd during the church ceremony and try and not upset your hosts when offering the very tasty food – thus you will better understand Romanians.

The post Easter in Romania appeared first on Valahia.News.

The word Martisor is the diminutive of ,,Martie”, the Romanian name for March, and thus literally means “little March”.

From March 1st to March 8th, when Romania celebrates not only Women’s Day, but also Mother’s Day, everything revolves around these tiny gifts.

Another version is that the Romans celebrated the beginning of spring on March 1, the month that bears the name of the god Mars, protector of the field and the flocks, a god who personified the rebirth of nature. Still, there are no martial connotations. It is said that the so-called martisoare are carriers of luck and happiness.

Martisor – Romanian traditions depend on the geographical areas of the country

On the first day of spring, in some areas of Romania, there are centuries old traditions according to which the parents tie a silver or gold coin to their children’s necks or hands. This talisman is of course accompanied by two twisted threads, made of white and red silk. In this way children will be protected from the scorching rays of the sun during the summer.

Some children will wear the martisoare around their necks for 12 days, then tie it to the branch of a young tree. If the tree is doing well (flowering, greening, fruiting) it is believed that the child will do well. Other children will wear the martisor until they first see a flowering tree and only then leave it on the branches of some tree.

One other tradition, in Moldova region, says that the boys are the ones who receive martisoare on the 1st of March, while the girls will receive them on the 8th. This tradition is not spread all over the country, but it is just confined to the above mentioned region.

Disregard if you’re an expat in Romania or a local, on March the 1st there are persons who would expect a martisor from you. Don’t be cheap and offer anything, from flowers, sweets or martisoare to the nice ladies who accompany your journey through life.

Be good!

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