In western countries, Easter is second only to Christmas as a major festival. It usually falls between March 22nd and April 25th. According to the Bible, Jesus Christ was betrayed by one of his Apostles, arrested by soldiers, humiliated and crucified on a cross. At the moment of Jesus' death, "the earth shook and rocks split apart". But before his death, he told his Apostles that: "Three days later, I will rise from death."

Indeed three days later, Jesus resurrected from his death. 11 of the Apostles saw him again while the guilt-ridden traitor committed suicide out of remorse. The resurrection of Jesus enhanced the people's faith in God. Jesus said to his Apostles: "I am with you always, even to the end of the Age."

According to the Bible, Jesus "gave himself as a sacrifice to take away our sins." Easter is a most meaningful event, but its religious significance has faded with the passing of time. Most people view it as just another festival.

It was in the 12th Century that "Easter eggs" began to appear. The Catholics painted red eggs and gave them to friends as a token of "new life" and "spring". In many European countries, the main dish for Easter is lamb which serves as a reminder of the blood that Jesus Christ shed on the cross to cleanse us of our sins. Other condiments include bread, butter, cheese and ham. The Christians regard bread as a symbol of Jesus Christ's eternal life. Special bread to commemorate Jesus is marked with a cross, lamb, and inscribed with the words -- Jesus Christ.

The British celebrates Easter with a costume parade, accompanied by the traditional bagpiper band, and children dressed like guards of Queen Victoria's era. New York's Easter Fashion Parade is noted for its glamour and fun. Some parts of Greece re-enact the burial of Jesus Christ. On the second day of Easter, the US President invites friends and their children to the White House for an Easter egg hunting game.

Easter is also an ideal time for a family picnic in the countryside. It marks the arrival of Spring as flowers begin to bloom, and people gather in the parks and suburbs to celebrate this joyous occasion.