No two eggs are identical, and the same can be said about Easter traditions and markets across Europe. The spring holiday is greeted with excitement each year, as bright and cheerful colors help chase away the gray of winter. To help welcome the anticipated religious holiday, cities and towns host annual markets filled with traditional and local crafts.

Germany In the country where the chocolate bunny was created, markets and traditions spring up around every corner. Easter trees decorated with hand-painted eggs and trinkets can be found in shops and hanging from ceilings in homes. Indulge in the traditional lamb-shaped sweet cake from the local bakery as you visit the open-air markets. Nuremberg welcomes guests to the Main Market Square for its traditional, 16-day Häferlesmarkt. Fill your baskets with wooden crafts, pottery and homespun textiles.

At the Museum für Völkerkunde in Hamburg, they offer an exhibit showcasing Easter heritage and history from countries throughout Europe. Complete your day with a stroll through the Northern German Easter Market.

At Michelstadt’s market, one of the oldest and most popular Easter egg markets in Germany, you will find individual craft demonstrations, a special area where children can watch chicks hatch, and eggs offered from different bird species. Ostrich egg, anyone?

Austria Traditions are celebrated and continued by all ages in Austria as the season approaches. The capital city leads by example by hosting an Easter market in the baroque surroundings of Vienna’s Schloss Schönbrunn.

Jazz music flows through the air as you enjoy viewing handcrafted candles, flower arrangements and palm leaves. Find regional ham, butter, cheese and other ingredients you may need to fill your traditional Easter basket at the Salzburg market. The highlighted event, the Easter Festival, promises a full musical program that will complete your weekend.

Stübing continues the ancient sunrise tradition of Palmbuschenbinden, held at the Open Air Museum’s smokehouse. Taste savory local sausages while enjoying music and shopping at the Villach Easter Market.

Graz brings fun and excitement for the little ones. With several market areas, the Hauptplatz is transformed into a colorful wonderland. Pet your favorite baby Easter animals, and don’t leave without making crafts and gifts for your basket!

Czech Republic

As in many European countries, Easter holds a historical and religious significance in the Czech Republic. Czech children look forward to the holiday and forthcoming Easter markets with their vibrantly colored stalls and Easter treats. Boys make rattles, also known as rehtacka, to chase away the evil spirits, while girls use watercolors, feathers and bee’s wax to decorate eggs. The tradition flows from homes to the streets, as women dress in traditional costume to paint trinkets for the market.

In Prague, local food and drink hold as much significance as shopping. The superb smell of roasting ham over a fire, traditional sugar pastries and a cup of hot wine will make you hesitate as to what to try first. Stages are set up in the Old Town and Wenceslas Square for dancing performances appropriate for all ages. While enjoying the festivities, children can visit the children’s area Dětská staroměstská dílnička for hands-on craft projects.

Enjoy spring at a local market! Frohe Ostern, Veselé Velikonoce and Happy Easter!

Easter Markets:

Germany Nuremberg - April 5-22

Austria Vienna - April 6-23 Weiz - April 13

Czech Republic

Prague - April 6-28

United Kingdom London - April 19-22 Cadbury Easter Egg Trails - Various dates and locations

Poland Kraków - April 20-21