Local services
The Easter holiday holds deep significance for Christians, marking the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Easter Sunday stands as the pinnacle of Easter celebrations in Hungary, drawing many to church services. The preceding week, known as Holy Week, is a period of reflection and religious observance, with special church services and processions held across the country.
Easter Monday, or “Húsvéthétfő” in Hungarian, is also known as “Ducking Monday” (locally called “Vízbevető”). This unique Hungarian tradition sees boys playfully sprinkle or “duck” girls with water, symbolizing the cleansing and renewal of spring. In return, girls often offer decorated eggs or treats to the boys.
For those staying in Debrecen during the holidays, here’s a list of activities to enjoy:
- Aquaticum Easter Activities: On 30th and 31st h of March, Aquaticum offers Easter-themed activities including creative crafts, egg hunts, and water games.
- Easter Bunny Festival at Debrecen Zoo: Debrecen Zoo awaits visitors between the 30th of March and the 1st of April from 9:00 to 6:00 p.m. with rich Easter experiences with some of the most popular bunny stars, the wonders of spring wildlife and the first theme park adventures of the year.
- Exhibition by Polish Painter Barbara Hubert: Explore the disappearing green spaces through Barbara Hubert’s exhibition “Vanishing Landscape,” opened at the German Cultural Forum in Debrecen.
- Easter at Hortobágy Wildlife Park: On Easter Sunday (31st of March) and Easter Monday (1st of Apri) Hortobágy Wildlife Park welcomes visitors with all-day egg hunts and animal feeding programs.
- As everything starts blooming, it is a good opportunity to visit DU’s Botanical Garden behind the main campus building. They boast a wide collection of cacti and succulent plants, a tranquil lake, and lush greenery—a perfect nature spot where you can forget you’re in the city. Egyetem tér 1.
For those who travel out of Debrecen:
Easter Festival at Hollókő Heritage Village: Experience traditional dances and festivities at the Easter Festival in the World Heritage Old Village of Hollókő, located approximately 100 km northeast of Budapest. The village, designated a World Heritage Site in 1987, offers a unique glimpse into Hungarian heritage with its well-preserved traditional settlement.
The Easter holiday is a time for families to come together, share special meals, exchange Easter eggs, and embrace the joyous spirit of the season.
