Easter Monday in the Czech Republic this year is once again a reminder of how deeply rooted the spring holidays are in tradition, but it also shows how their form is gradually changing. While it used to be one of the liveliest folk customs of the year, today a smaller part of society takes part in active trick-or-treating. For many, the day is mainly a symbolic end to Easter and the last day of the long weekend.
The origin of Easter Monday stems from ancient ideas about the renewal of life and the power of nature. The tradition of the pomlazek, woven from young willow twigs, was believed to „rejuvenate“ - that is, to transmit freshness, health and energy. The pouring of water had a similar meaning, which has survived to this day, especially in Moravia. It was believed that young sap in willow twigs or fresh water could symbolically transfer life force to a person.
The whipping itself, which is called in various regions, for example, mrskačka, tartare or karabáč, was supposed to provide women with beauty, vitality and good mood throughout the year. In return, carol singers traditionally received easter eggs, ribbons for the pommel, sweets and, in the case of adults, a glass of alcohol. Painted eggs remain one of the most significant symbols of Easter and are still painted in most households today.
Yet it appears that some habits are gradually fading. According to recent surveys, fewer and fewer people are knitting their own pomláz and the tradition of trick-or-treating is not as widespread as it used to be. On the contrary, other Easter activities persist, such as baking mazanka or lamb, decorating homes and family gatherings. For many people, Easter is an opportunity to relax and spend time with loved ones rather than a strict observance of customs.
But Easter Monday is not just about traditions at home. Themed events, fairs and special tours of historical monuments and open-air museums take place across the country, where visitors can remind themselves of how the holiday was celebrated in the past. Some places also maintain unique folklore events, such as circumambulations or regional festivals involving youth and local communities.
With the end of Easter Monday, the short holiday season also comes to a close. School children are finishing their Easter holidays and many people are returning from cottages or visits back to their normal routine. With this comes the traditionally increased traffic on the roads, which is usually under police surveillance each year.
Alongside tradition, however, critical voices are increasingly appearing. The custom of whipping with a pom-pom is controversial for a part of society and some consider it outdated or inappropriate, especially if it is not perceived as symbolic and voluntary. Discussions on how to adapt these traditions to contemporary values thus recur regularly.
Today, Easter Monday stands at the boundary between the past and the present. For some it remains a living and popular tradition, for others it is more a reminder of ancient customs. In any case, it continues to fulfil its role - symbolically closing the Easter holiday and marking the arrival of spring, renewal and a new beginning.
gnews.cz - GH
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