Easter in Corfu – A Celebration Like No Other

Experience the Magic of Easter in Corfu

Easter in Corfu is the most spectacular and vibrant celebration in Greece, blending deep-rooted traditions, music, and unforgettable spectacles. This unique festivity transforms the island of Corfu into a spiritual and cultural hub, drawing thousands of visitors who wish to experience its breathtaking customs.

The Easter in Corfu festivities last ten days, beginning on Palm Sunday and continuing through Bright Monday, offering a remarkable mix of solemnity, grandeur, and joy. Below, you will find a detailed guide to the events, ensuring you don’t miss a single moment of this extraordinary celebration.

One of the most remarkable aspects of Easter in Corfu is the harmonious coexistence of the Orthodox and Catholic communities. Despite the different Easter dates between the two Christian traditions, the Catholic Church of Corfu actively participates in the Orthodox celebrations, creating a truly inclusive and universal Easter experience.

Palm Sunday – The Procession of Saint Spiridon

Easter in Corfu begins with a spectacular procession in honor of Saint Spiridon, the patron saint of Corfu. His sacred relics are carried through the streets at 11:00 AM, commemorating the saint’s miraculous intervention in saving the island from the plague in 1629. This tradition has been upheld since 1630 and follows the path of the Venetian fortifications, making it the longest religious procession on the island. Accompanied by 18 marching philharmonic bands, this event is a true spectacle of faith and music.

In the evening, one of Corfu’s renowned orchestras performs a special Easter concert at the Municipal Theatre—a truly enchanting experience for both locals and visitors.

Holy Monday & Holy Tuesday – The Atmosphere Builds

The streets of Corfu Town fill with the aromas of traditional Easter delicacies, such as Mandolato (nougat), Fogatsa (sweet bread), and other local treats. On Holy Tuesday, at 9:00 PM, the Corfu Events Organization hosts poetry readings and religious-themed cultural events at the Palace of St. Michael and St. George, adding a literary touch to the Easter atmosphere.

Holy Wednesday – A Musical Prelude to Easter

Historically, Holy Wednesday was the day when local farmers brought their lambs to town for sale—a tradition that has since faded. However, what remains is the spirit of solemnity and devotion, as Easter hymns echo throughout the island’s churches. In the evening, the Corfu Choir performs a concert of sacred music at the Municipal Theatre, blending Western and Eastern influences into a mesmerizing musical tribute to the Passion of Christ.

Holy Thursday – The Symbolic Preparations Begin

Easter in Corfu wouldn’t be complete without the traditional dyeing of red eggs, symbolizing renewal and rebirth. At the Catholic Cathedral, an impressive ceremony unfolds: twelve candles are lit, representing the twelve Gospels, and they are extinguished one by one as the Passion narrative progresses.

Good Friday – The Procession of the Epitaphios

One of the most solemn and moving moments of Easter in Corfu is the procession of the Epitaphios. Throughout Corfu Town and its villages, the ceremonial funerary processions take place, each with its own unique rituals. In Corfu Town, the first Epitaphios emerges at sunset from the Church of Panagia Spiliotissa, while the final and grandest procession departs from the Metropolitan Church at 10:00 PM, accompanied by choirs, philharmonic orchestras, and thousands of worshippers.

A unique feature of the Corfiot tradition is that banners, lanterns, and Venetian-style torches are tilted sideways as a sign of mourning. Three of the island’s most renowned philharmonic bands—the "Old Philharmonic" (red), "Mantzaros" (blue), and "Kapodistrias"—perform hauntingly beautiful funeral marches, adding to the deeply moving atmosphere.

Holy Saturday – The Most Spectacular Moment of Easter in Corfu

The culmination of Easter in Corfu begins at dawn on Holy Saturday, with a symbolic re-enactment of the earthquake described in the Bible as having occurred at the moment of Christ’s Resurrection. This ritual takes place at the Church of Panagia ton Xenon, setting the stage for the incredible first Resurrection ceremony. At 11:00 AM, the most famous Easter tradition in Corfu takes place—the Botides. Giant clay pots filled with water are thrown from the balconies of Corfu’s Spianada Square, crashing onto the streets below in an explosion of sound and energy.

This tradition is believed to symbolize the renewal of life and echoes ancient Venetian customs, where people would throw old items out of their windows on New Year's Day to welcome prosperity and good fortune. Immediately after the Botides, the mood shifts from mourning to celebration—church bells ring joyously, orchestras play festive tunes, and the entire town erupts in cheers. Later in the evening, at 10:00 PM, the Catholic Easter service takes place, allowing those who wish to attend both Catholic and Orthodox liturgies to do so.

Easter Sunday – A Grand Celebration

The Orthodox Resurrection service takes place outdoors in Spianada Square, presided over by the Metropolitan of Corfu. Thousands of worshippers gather in unity, while fireworks, illuminated fortresses, and music from the island’s orchestras create a magnificent atmosphere. After the Christos Anesti (Christ is Risen) proclamation, the festivities continue into the night, with feasting, dancing, and joyful gatherings.

While the traditional Greek custom of roasting lamb on a spit is not originally a Corfiot Easter tradition, it has become increasingly popular over the years. Traditionally, Corfiots prepared "Tsiglichourda" (a special Easter soup) and a variety of slow-cooked meats, enjoying the main feast on Easter Monday instead. On Easter Sunday afternoon, and for the following two days, festivities continue across the island, with icon processions, music performances, and cultural celebrations.

Plan your visit and experience the magic of Easter in Corfu!

Where to Stay for Easter in Corfu

To fully enjoy Easter in Corfu, staying in Corfu Town is the best option, providing easy access to all major events and celebrations.

Atlantis Hotel, conveniently located near the center of Corfu Town, offers comfortable and budget-friendly accommodation, making it an ideal choice for those looking to fully experience the unique traditions and vibrant atmosphere of Easter in Corfu.

Easter in Corfu