In Sweden, Easter is the most important religious holiday after Christmas. Easter Week is both a period of celebration and solemnity. Branches of pussy willow and other early blooming trees are decorated with feathers. These represent the flagellation of Jesus before his crucifixion. In earlier times, self-flagellation was practiced in commemoration of Jesus’ affliction.

It has been a custom for children dressed as hags to knock on the doors of neighbors. They present handmade cards with Easter greetings to the homeowner in the hope of being given a treat or a coin. This is a reflection of the seventeenth century, when it was thought witches flew on their brooms to consort with the devil on Maundy Thursday. More than one woman was hanged because of this hysterical belief rising up in a village.

Like many other countries, the Swedish Easter is about food. The smorgasbord, including herring, salmon, meatballs, boiled potatoes and a variety of egg dishes, is served. Many families enjoy roast lamb for their Easter dinner as well.

Semla buns are eaten throughout Lent. The name comes from the semolina (hard wheat) flour used in making the buns. The dough is flavored with cardamom. After baking, the top of the bun is cut off and the bun is filled with almond paste and whipped cream. The top is replaced and sprinkled with confectioners’ sugar. They are eaten with a cup of coffee. Some prefer the bun placed in a bowl of warm milk for eating.

Eggs are the most common food. They are hard-cooked and decorated for eating on Easter Eve. Eggs made of paper and cardboard are decorated and filled with candy for the children. The eggs are hidden within the home for children to find. The egg is the symbol of the grave from which Jesus rose on Easter morning.

Like so many other countries the Swedish Easter customs are a combination of pagan, seasonal and religious practices. In the United States we observe similar customs, but have different ways of doing them. We use palm branches to signify those laid in the path of Jesus into Jerusalem. We give children Easter baskets filled with toys and candy. Easter egg hunts are held in city parks. The Pascal candle is lighted for church services.

Carl Sandburg wrote about Christmas but not Easter. His parents may have celebrated the day by going to church, getting together with relatives and serving a large meal. They may have brought some Easter customs with them from the old country or they may have accepted the practices of their new nation. There were years when the Sandburg family was too poor to make Easter any kind of celebration.