Palm Sunday and the start of the Easter season: traditions and rituals
The Symbolism of Palm Sunday
The main symbol of the day is willow twigs, which are the first to sprout after winter. Consecrated willow is considered a powerful talisman for the home and health. However, today’s celebration is merely the start of a major cycle leading up to Maundy Thursday and Good Friday.
The Magic of Purification: Maundy Thursday and Navsky Easter The culmination of the preparations falls on Maundy Thursday (9 April). In folk tradition, this day possesses a special magical power:
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The Rite of Fire and Purification: On this day, it was customary to clean the home, and all the rubbish collected was burned. It was believed that, along with the smoke, all the evil and illnesses that had accumulated over the winter would vanish.
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Thursday salt: It was on this day that a special salt was prepared by baking it in the oven. It was kept throughout the year as a healing remedy for people and livestock, as well as for protection against ‘curses’ and negativity.
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Easter for the Dead: According to ancient beliefs, on the night of Thursday, Easter arrives for the dead and water nymphs. Rituals involving water (washing before sunrise) served not only to cleanse the body but also to protect against otherworldly forces.
Calendar of events for 5 April 2026
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Church holiday: The Lord’s Entry into Jerusalem; commemoration of the martyrs Agathopodus and Theodulus.
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Traditions: Blessing of willow branches in churches, family lunches (fish is permitted).
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Name days: Mark, Plato, Theodora, Agathopod, Theodulus.
Signs of the day
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Whatever the weather is on Palm Sunday, so will it be at Easter.
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If the willow has blossomed profusely, the year will be fruitful and bountiful.
