Easter in South Africa isn’t just a time for a long weekend getaway; it’s an occasion that brings together faith, family, and food in a way that’s uniquely tied to the country’s diverse cultures.
From the quiet moments of Good Friday to the joyful celebrations of Resurrection Sunday, each community marks the holiday in a way that reflects their beliefs and traditions.
Xhosa and Zulu Easter Traditions
For the Xhosa people, Easter is a deeply spiritual time, and much of the focus is on church services.
Families attend lengthy church services, some of which can extend into the night, often dressed in formal or traditional attire.
In more rural areas, these celebrations are marked by communal worship, with extended prayers, hymns, and sermons that focus on the crucifixion and resurrection of Christ.
Food plays a significant role in Xhosa Easter celebrations.
After church, families come together to share a traditional 7-colour meal, which might include meat, rice, beetroot, pumpkin, creamed spinach, coleslaw, and more.
One dish that’s especially popular is umphokoqo, a crumbly maize meal often served with sour milk (amasi).
It’s a favorite during warm days and brings a sense of togetherness and joy to the occasion.
Zulu Easter celebrations follow a similar religious focus, with families traveling from the cities to their rural homes for the holiday.
Church services are central to the celebrations, after which families enjoy storytelling sessions with elders and share meals together.
Younger generations, however, also embrace modern traditions such as Easter Monday braais (barbecues), picnics, and outdoor community events, mixing their faith with fun and leisure.
Coloured Easter Celebrations: Pickled Fish and Hot Cross Buns
In many Coloured households, Easter is tied to the tradition of preparing pickled fish, a dish inspired by Cape Malay cuisine.
Often prepared on Good Friday, the pickled fish is made with firm fish like snoek or hake, marinated in a tangy blend of vinegar, curry spices, and onions. It’s typically served cold, often alongside hot cross buns.
Pickled fish holds such cultural significance in South Africa that, during Easter week, local supermarkets and fishmongers see a significant increase in demand for the dish’s key ingredients.
For many families, preparing and sharing pickled fish is both a culinary and spiritual tradition passed down through the generations as part of their observance of Good Friday.
Family gatherings and Easter egg hunts for children are also a big part of the celebrations, with families enjoying the long weekend together.
Afrikaans Easter Celebrations: A Time for Reflection and Simplicity
For Afrikaans families, Easter is a quieter time of reflection and religious observance.
Church services on Good Friday and Easter Sunday are essential parts of the celebrations, and meals tend to be simple, with lamb or roast dishes accompanied by vegetables and potatoes being common fare.
While many families maintain these traditional practices, others see the Easter break as a chance to reconnect with nature or take a short trip away.
Weekend getaways to the coast, the Karoo, or even camping trips are popular, offering families a peaceful retreat and a chance to relax away from the hustle and bustle of urban life.