A Lighter, Family-Focused Celebration

While Easter in Spain (Semana Santa) is known for its powerful processions, emotional music, and deep religious meaning, in the UK it is celebrated in a very different way. In Britain, Easter is a quieter, more relaxed holiday centred on family, food, and fun springtime traditions.

The Long Weekend

One of the biggest differences is the four-day weekend in the UK. Good Friday and Easter Monday are both official bank holidays (día festivo), giving many people time off work and school.

Good Friday is observed calmly, often with reduced shop hours or closures, but without the dramatic ceremonies common in Spain. Easter Monday, which is not widely celebrated in Spain, is simply a bonus day off for relaxation, family visits, or short trips.

Sunday Traditions

Easter Sunday is the main event. Some people attend church services, but many focus on spending the day with family. A traditional roast lunch, often featuring lamb, is a popular choice, followed by seasonal treats like hot cross buns and Simnel cake.

For children, the highlight is often the Easter egg hunt. Chocolate eggs are hidden around homes or gardens for children to find, and the Easter Bunny, a fictional character, is said to deliver these treats during the night. This playful tradition has become a large part of UK culture.

More Secular, Less Formal

Overall, Easter in the UK is less religious and more commercial compared to Spain. Shops start selling chocolate eggs and decorations weeks in advance, and schools enjoy a two-week spring break.

Cultural Insights Through Comparison

Understanding how the holiday is celebrated in different countries is a great way to see how culture shapes tradition. While Spain honours Easter with pageantry and devotion, the UK takes a more informal, family-focused approach—each unique in its own way.

Written by Rob Darlington, Creator at The Harrogate International Academy