Good Friday Celebrations from around the World

Having lived in Australia, Good Friday to me was always one of those holidays where everything remained closed for the day, except for the local fish and chip shops. It was a day to stay at home and take it easy. In other parts of the world, however, this Christian holiday is celebrated in very different and sometimes quirky ways. Read on to know more about my favourite picks…

The Way of the Cross

Good Friday commemorates the day that Jesus Christ was crucified, and is part of a holy week for Christians around the world, including Easter Sunday, when Jesus was resurrected. 

In Vatican City and Rome, home of the Catholic Church, this day is marked by a ceremony of the Way of the Cross. It commemorates 14 key events denoting His final walk through the streets of Jerusalem, carrying the Cross. The procession is held at the Colosseum, where the Pope goes through the different stations, whilst a Cross is carried through each mark. The stations of the Cross are used in many other countries as well, including Puerto Rico and Spain, representing the Passion of Christ. 

In the old city of Jerusalem, devotees follow the Via Dolorosa walk, which is believed to be the actual walk that Christ took as he carried his Cross. This culminates at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, where the crucifixion actually took place. It is now a multi-denominational church, richly decorated and worth a visit. 

Remembering Our Sins

While Good Friday is a somber day, it isn’t until Easter Sunday that the real celebrations of His resurrection take place. 

In the Philippines, performances narrating the Way of the Cross as well as plays representing the Passion of Christ are performed. However, church bells are not rung and masses are generally not celebrated. This religious holiday is considered to be one of the most important ones for the Catholic country, and is a time when many people head out on pilgrimages.

In Bermuda, kites are used to symbolise the Cross and flying them emulates Jesus’s ascension to heaven.  In a colourful spectacle, hundreds of handmade kites dot the sky on Good Friday.

Food plays an interesting role on this day. Whilst in some countries fasting for all but one meal is considered important, in others it is only meat that is considered taboo and fish is traditionally eaten. 

Hot cross buns are a delicacy in the UK, and Australia on Good Friday; the Cross on top represents Christ. These hot buns are usually filled with raisins and other dried fruits, and taste just lovely when heated with some butter. 

Come and experience the different cultural traditions as you travel to destinations around the world to celebrate Good Friday. MakeMyTrip is your one stop shop for all your flight, hotel and other travel needs.