Easter quiz questions: from chocolate eggs to ancient traditions

Easter is a time for chocolate, family gatherings, and if you're lucky, a quiz. Whether you're hosting a post-lunch trivia session or adding a seasonal round to your regular pub quiz, here are six questions covering the history and traditions of Easter.

The questions

1Easter's date changes each year. It's calculated as the first Sunday after the first full moon following what astronomical event?

Answer:The spring equinox (also accept vernal equinox)(click to reveal)

This is why Easter can fall anywhere between 22nd March and 25th April. The calculation dates back to the Council of Nicaea in 325 AD.

2Which country is credited with originating the tradition of the Easter Bunny, bringing it to America in the 1700s?

Answer:Germany(click to reveal)

German immigrants to Pennsylvania brought the tradition of "Osterhase" (Easter hare), a hare that would leave coloured eggs for good children.

3We know Good Friday and Easter Monday, but what is the name of the Thursday within Holy Week?

Answer:Maundy Thursday(click to reveal)

The name comes from the Latin "mandatum" (commandment), referring to Jesus's commandment to his disciples to love one another. In the UK, the monarch distributes "Maundy money" to pensioners on this day.

4How many days was Jesus buried before his resurrection?

Answer:Three days(click to reveal)

According to the Gospels, Jesus was crucified on Friday and rose on Sunday, spending three days in the tomb. This is why Easter Sunday celebrates the resurrection.

5In which European country is it customary to gently whip women with a handmade willow "whip" on Easter Monday?

Answer:Czech Republic with a "pomlázka" (also accept Slovakia, Poland, or Hungary where similar traditions exist)(click to reveal)

In the Czech Republic, this tradition is called "pomlázka." The whipping is meant to bring health and youth. Women traditionally give decorated eggs in return.

6What is the name of the Sunday before Easter?

Answer:Palm Sunday(click to reveal)

Palm Sunday commemorates Jesus's entry into Jerusalem, when crowds waved palm branches to greet him. It marks the beginning of Holy Week.

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These questions work well alongside a chocolate egg hunt or as part of a spring-themed quiz night.