There is no doubt that summer in Corfu is unique. From the Old town, to the beautiful beaches with azure and crystal clear waters, lush landscapes and picturesque villages, Corfu is rightfully one of the most popular and unique summer destinations in Greece. However, locals strongly believe that Easter in Corfu is even more worthy, and they aren't wrong. Before the global pandemic of COVID-19, thousands of people used to visit the island of Corfu to celebrate Easter and experience an unforgettable Greek Easter and enjoy the numerous festivities. In the Greek Orthodox Church, Easter is undoubtedly the biggest celebration and more specifically in Corfu, the endless festivities are even more spectacular.
The local traditions start on Palm Sunday and continue until Easter Sunday. People from all over the world come together, filling picturesque streets of the old town to witness the procession of the Holy Shrine of Saint Spyridon, the largest litany in Corfu, where all 18 philharmonic orchestras participate and later parade around the town, filing the streets with music. In the morning of Good Friday, another celebration takes place, the Descent Of the Christ from the Holy Cross, where all churches start the processions of their epitaphs, decorated by little girls, around Corfu town and finally gathering at the centre of town. The town's philharmonic orchestras complete the celebration, creating a unique and one of a kind atmosphere. The highlight of Greek Easter in Corfu takes place on Good Saturday. The epitaph of Saint Spyridon, accompanied by three of the island's philharmonic orchestras is one of the most spectacular events. Later, at 11.00, the First Resurrection takes place, where the bells of the churches ring and the custom of the so-called Botides occurs. Originated from the Venetian Occupation, people gather on balconies and throw large, painted ceramic pots, filled with water to enhance the sound when breaking at the ground. Thousands of spectators watch in awe from the street below and later pieces of the smashed pots are taken home as good luck charms. The island's philharmonic bands fill the streets playing religious marches. At midnight on Holy Saturday, the Resurrection of the Christ is celebrated where people gather holding their personal Greek Easter candles. Votive candles are given to the Greek children as a gift by their godmothers and godfathers, while the beauty and distinctiveness of each candle are of paramount importance to them. At exactly 12.00, beautiful fireworks light up the sky while the philharmonic orchestras play cheerful marches and later parade around town, celebrating the Resurrection of Christ.
All in all, Easter in Corfu promises an unforgettable experience. The spectacular celebrations, the philharmonic orchestras and overall magical atmosphere, will make you appreciate and love Corfu as a spring destination you will never forget.
