Greek Orthodox Easter

Easter in Greece lasts 100 days with the 50 days before Easter known as the period of Triodion and the 50 days following Easter known as the Pentecostarion.  During Holy Week prior to Easter Sunday the traditional foods are prepared and evening services follow the Passion of Christ.  After vespers on Easter Friday the bier (Epitaphios) of Christ is carried through the streets.  The Resurrection mass (Anastasis) takes place on Saturday evening and at midnight the ceremony of lighting of candles takes place which is the most significant moment of the year.  The 40 day Lenten fast ends on Easter Sunday with the cracking of red-dyed eggs and an outdoor feast of roast lamb.