Easter is a Christian festival and cultural holiday that commemorates the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, which, according to the New Testament, occurred on the third day after his crucifixion by the Romans around 30 AD
. It is considered the most important and oldest festival of the Christian Church, symbolizing the triumph of life over death and offering hope and peace to believers
. The celebration of Easter marks the culmination of the Passion of Jesus and follows a 40-day period of fasting, prayer, and penance called Lent
. Easter Sunday is observed on the first Sunday after the first full moon following the vernal equinox, making its date variable each year
. The term "Easter" may derive from the name of an Anglo-Saxon goddess associated with spring and fertility, Ēostre, or from Latin and Greek terms related to Passover (Pascha), reflecting the holiday’s connection to Jewish Passover both in timing and symbolism
. Easter traditions include church services, sunrise vigils, the decoration and breaking of Easter eggs (symbols of new life), and various cultural customs such as the Easter Bunny and festive family meals
. In essence, Easter celebrates Jesus’ resurrection, which Christians believe restores the broken relationship between humanity and God, promising eternal life and offering peace and hope in the present
