WHAT DO UKRAINIANS PUT IN AN EASTER BASKET

On Easter, Ukrainian people go to church to celebrate the Resurrection of Christ and bless the food in baskets and after have meal together. This process has deep spiritual and religious meaning.

Easter is a family holiday when all relatives gather around the festive table. At first Ukrainians eat the food which they brought from the church.

Ukrainians prepare their Easter baskets in the evening and cover them with an embroidered napkin. In the Ukrainian Easter basket you can find:

  • Paska
  • Eggs
  • Ham
  • Sausages
  • Cheese
  • Dairy butter
  • Horseradish
  • Salt

Some Ukrainians put a myrtle twig in their basket. The myrtle symbolizes eternity and ending life. Ukrainians also put votive candles on Easter breads or simply place them in the Easter basket and light the candles in the church. The candle is the symbol of the inner light of people.