If you're new to Easter Down Under, there’s a lot you might want to know about how Aussies celebrate, from a unique take on Easter meals and traditions to how to make the most of the long weekend. Let’s hop into everything that makes Easter in Australia special.
Easter in Australia is unique because it blends traditional Christian celebrations with distinctly Aussie customs. Many Australians attend church services and/or participate in Easter egg hunts. The holiday also marks the start of autumn, (which is typically still quite warm in most parts of the country) so most of the Aussie population uses the long weekend as an excuse to get outdoors. If you’re in Australia over Easter, you can expect backyard BBQs, beach trips or an extended weekend getaway.
Another fun twist is that in some communities the Australian Easter Bunny is also joined by the "Easter Bilby" as a way to raise awareness for native wildlife.
Join the "Easter Bilby" to raise awareness for native wildlife in Australia.
This mix of cultural traditions, outdoor fun, and a focus on family makes Easter in Australia a special and unique experience.
In Australia, Easter always falls on the first Sunday after the first full moon following the vernal equinox (yes, it's a bit complicated). But for most people, Easter is part of a four-day long weekend, starting with Good Friday and ending on Easter Monday.
Schools in Australia usually break up for the Easter holidays around the week before Easter, so kids get a solid break to enjoy all the fun. Public servants and office workers also get a long weekend, but some businesses may give employees a few extra days off, depending on the industry.
In 2025, Easter will fall a little later than usual. The Good Friday public holiday will be on April 18th, and Easter Sunday will be on April 20th. This means the long Easter weekend will stretch from Friday 18th April to Monday 21st April.
These spiced, fruit-filled buns with a cross on top are practically synonymous with Easter. They’re traditionally eaten on Good Friday (although no one will judge if you sneak one on the days before or after). The combination of sweet and spicy makes these buns an Easter classic.
Good Friday is often seen as a day to eat fish or seafood. From fish and chips to grilled barramundi, prawns, and oysters, the sheer variety of fresh seafood available in Australia is a massive treat.
If there’s one meal that screams Easter in Australia, it’s roast lamb. Usually served with roasted vegetables, mint sauce, and maybe a glass of wine, roast lamb is a go-to dish for Easter Sunday lunch. Many Aussie families enjoy a roast as the centerpiece of their Easter meal, which is a nod to the country’s love of lamb and its symbolic connection to the season.
The tradition of egg hunting is widespread, and many Aussies enjoy indulging in chocolate eggs, bunnies, and other sweet treats over the Easter long weekend. Interestingly, it's not just about the chocolate — some shops even offer "Easter egg" alternatives with Aussie classics such as lamingtons or cupcakes decorated with pastel colours.
Aussie Easter cuisine often gets a local twist by incorporating native ingredients that reflect the country’s unique food culture. For example, wattleseed, a native Australian seed with a rich, nutty flavor, can be used in desserts like cakes or even hot cross buns, adding an earthy depth to traditional recipes.
Another popular native ingredient is finger lime, which has a tangy, citrusy burst and can be used in everything from fruit salads to pavlova toppings.
Bush tomatoes and bush peppers also make appearances in savory Easter dishes, adding a spicy, smoky kick to lamb roasts or even in marinades for BBQs.
These native ingredients bring a distinctly Australian flair to Easter meals, showcasing the country’s rich culinary heritage while celebrating the season with a local touch.
Easter in Australia comes with its own set of traditions, some of which are deeply rooted in religion or culture, and others are just an excuse for a good time.
For a lot of Aussies, Easter is as much about the spiritual side as it is about the fun and food. Many people head to church on Good Friday and Easter Sunday to remember the story of Jesus’ death and resurrection. These services usually include hymns, prayers, and Bible readings, offering a chance to reflect on the meaning of the season.
While not everyone makes it to church, it’s still a special time for many families to come together and mark the occasion. Some places also host Easter vigils or processions, which can be a nice way to bring the community together and celebrate the religious roots of the holiday, alongside all the Easter eggs and barbecues.
With Easter falling in autumn, it’s prime time for a family camping trip. Many Aussies pack up the car, head to the coast, or find a nice bush retreat to enjoy the long weekend. Check out the best campsites in NSW here. The cooler temperatures (compared to summer) make it a perfect time for outdoor adventures, whether it’s hiking through national parks, swimming at the beach, or just enjoying a peaceful campfire under the stars.
If you’ve got kids (or you’re just a kid at heart), Easter egg hunts are a staple. Whether it’s in the backyard, at a local park, or even on a family farm, the hunt for chocolate eggs is a must-do. It’s a fun tradition that gets everyone involved, from the youngest to the oldest, all racing around in search of hidden treats. Some families even add a twist with special challenges, like golden eggs that hold bigger prizes or clues leading to the next hidden spot.
Easter decor in Australia is a fun mix of traditional and modern styles. You can expect the classic cute bunnies, pastel colours, spring flowers and chicks as well as natural decor such as wreaths that incorporate native plants and flowers.
In keeping with Australia’s connection to land and wildlife, many Australian Easter celebrations also incorporate the Easter Bilby. The Bilby has become a symbol of conservation across the country and many communities use it over Easter to raise awareness about protecting Aussie wildlife.
The Easter hat parade is a highlight in many Australian school communities. Each year children from younger years get creative, decorating hats with everything from bright ribbons and flowers to cute chicks and Easter eggs.
On parade day, the children show off their crafty creations to parents and teachers.
Most public parks and beaches are equipped with free BBQs, making it easy to cook up a feast with family and friends. When packing for an Aussie Easter picnic, don't forget the essentials: eskies filled with ice or ice packs to keep drinks and food cool, tongs and cooking oil for the BBQ, and plenty of snacks like cold salads, fresh fruit, and hot cross buns.
And, of course, a good insect repellent or fly nets can be a lifesaver to keep those pesky flies away while you enjoy the Easter celebrations.
In some parts of the world, like the U.S. and Europe, Easter is marked by elaborate parades and festivals, while in Australia, it's often more laid-back, with the focus on family and nature.
Australia's adoption of the Easter Bilby over the Easter Bunny also highlights a unique effort to raise awareness for native wildlife, making the celebration feel even more locally meaningful.
So, while Easter may share some universal themes worldwide, Aussies certainly put their own relaxed, outdoor spin on the holiday.
While Easter isn't typically known for big, mainstream music festivals in Australia, there are plenty of local events that feature live performances, making it a great time for music lovers to enjoy some tunes.
Many towns and cities host Easter weekend festivals that showcase everything from indie bands to folk music, jazz performances, and even classical concerts.
For families with young kids, Easter is a great time to enjoy local performances and entertainment geared toward children. Many towns and cities host Easter-themed events such as puppet shows, Easter egg hunts with live characters, and storytelling sessions, where children can enjoy songs and stories about Easter.
About 20% of Australians choose chocolate Easter Bilbies over the traditional Easter Bunny, supporting wildlife conservation.
Easter in Australia typically gives most people a 4-day long weekend, with Good Friday, Easter Monday, and sometimes Easter Saturday as public holidays.
Around 50% of Australians celebrate Easter with a BBQ, making it one of the most popular ways to enjoy the long weekend.
Australians consume around 40 million hot cross buns every Easter, with bakeries adding creative twists like chocolate or native fruits.
85% of Australian families take part in Easter egg hunts, making it a key part of the holiday celebration.
Over 80% of Australian schools host Easter hat parades, a tradition loved by kids and families.
Approximately 30% of Australians enjoy lamb as the centerpiece of their Easter Sunday meal.
Around 15% of Australians go camping during the Easter long weekend, enjoying the outdoors in autumn weather.
Australians spend over $200 million on Easter-related products each year, including chocolate, decorations, and festive meals.
Australians buy an estimated 80 million chocolate eggs during the Easter period.
Ah, the eternal question – what’s open, and when? In Australia, it depends on where you are. Good Friday and Easter Sunday are typically days when many retail stores, shopping centres, and supermarkets close.
In some states, you'll find restrictions on trading hours during the Easter long weekend, while in others, certain stores (particularly in big cities) may remain open.
But don’t panic, if you’re in desperate need of chocolate or last-minute supplies, some convenience stores, petrol stations, and small retailers will still be there to help.
Pro tip: stock up on your essentials before Good Friday to avoid the panic-buying frenzy.
When it comes to the Easter weekend, it’s important to know the rules surrounding alcohol sales, especially as things can get a bit tricky due to public holiday regulations.
In most states, Good Friday is a restricted day for alcohol sales, meaning many bottle shops, pubs, and restaurants can’t sell alcohol on this day. However, some venues may still serve drinks with meals, and licensed venues like restaurants or certain tourist spots may have specific licenses allowing them to serve alcohol on Good Friday.
Easter Saturday and Easter Sunday, on the other hand, are usually much more relaxed when it comes to alcohol sales. Most bottle shops and pubs will be open and ready to serve up your favourite drinks, though opening hours might vary, so it’s always good to check.
By Easter Monday, the weekend wraps up with a bit of a bang, and most places are back to regular hours. So, whether it’s a cold beer with your fish and chips on Good Friday or a glass of wine with the Easter roast, it’s important to plan ahead – but luckily, the Easter festivities offer plenty of opportunities to enjoy a drink (responsibly, of course).
Easter in Australia is a time for celebration, relaxation, and indulging in some truly delicious traditions. Whether it’s the thrill of an Easter egg hunt, the chance to feast on fresh seafood or roast lamb, or simply enjoying the company of family and friends over a long weekend, there’s something for everyone.
While Easter may have its roots in religious significance, for many, it’s a well-earned break filled with fun, food, and the perfect opportunity to kick back.
So, whether it's a camping trip, a backyard feast, or just some quiet time, Easter in Australia is a celebration that brings people together.
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