Easter Across the Atlantic: A Comparative Look at Celebrations in the US and France

Easter is a holiday that is celebrated in different ways around the world. While some traditions are shared across countries, there are also distinct differences between how Easter is celebrated in different parts of the world. In this article, we’ll explore how Easter is celebrated in the United States and France.

One of the most notable differences between Easter in the United States and France is that it is a public holiday in France, with most businesses and schools closed. In contrast, Easter is not a federal holiday in the United States, and many businesses remain open. This means that the way people celebrate Easter in the two countries can be quite different.

Another difference between Easter in the United States and France is the food that is traditionally eaten. In France, a popular pastry called “Pâques cake” or “Gâteau de Pâques,” a chocolate sponge cake which is often consumed, as well as chocolate fish and bells. In the United States, it is customary to eat Easter eggs, chocolate bunnies, and other sweets.

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Religion also plays a significant role in Easter celebrations in both countries. The majority of the French population is Catholic, and Easter is an important religious holiday. In the United States, Easter is also a significant religious holiday for Christians, but there is greater religious diversity, and some people may not observe it as a religious holiday.

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Finally, the way Easter is celebrated can also vary depending on regional traditions and customs. For example, in the United States, some regions may have Easter egg hunts or parades, while in France, some regions may have bonfires or processions.

Whether you’re in the United States or France, Easter is a time to come together with family and friends to celebrate this important holiday in your own unique way.

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About the Author

Isabelle Karamooz, Founder of FQM is originally from Versailles, France. She always wanted to see the world, which she did starting at 17 when she had the fortunate opportunity to study abroad in Rhonda, Spain. She traveled the world from Hong Kong to Taiwan, from Ireland to Austria, to Luxembourg, Liechtenstein and Monaco, and discovered the entire countries of Italy and Morocco. She really feels like a citizen of the world. She finally settled several years in Los Angeles where she worked at the French Consulate of Los Angeles. Passionate about the Arts and History, she earned a Bachelor's degree in History from the University of California Berkeley and have studied for a Master program in teaching at the University of Southern California, then she went on to teach French to aspiring UNLV and CSN students in Nevada. She is the founder and Editor in chief of French Quarter Magazine, in which she writes, interviews people in a wide range of circumstances, pitches story ideas to writers and journalists, takes photos, and is currently writing her first work in English, which spans the life of Coco Chanel and is filled with adventure, intrigue, history and love.