Most of our traditions originated with our ancestors. German immigrants brought Christmas trees and the Easter Bunny to America, and they are now American traditions. Sweden’s children go house to house on Maundy Thursday in remembrance of a time when people believed in witches.

During the 16th century, many people were accused of witchcraft and put to death. Hundreds of people were killed between 1668 and 1676. The Salem Witch Trials were held in 1692 and 1693. Over two hundred were accused of witchcraft but only nineteen were executed. (Just a reminder of the American witch scare.)

As early as the 13th century, people in Sweden and Finland believed that witches flew to meet the devil on Maundy Thursday, Brooms were hidden so witches couldn’t make the trip, and bonfires were lit to keep the witches from returning. In memory of this, children dress as Easter Hags and go door to door on Maundy Thursday or Holy Saturday to receive treats in exchange for homemade Easter cards. Children wish people good fortune and in Finland it is customary to wave a willow branch to ward off evil spirits as they greet people.

I struggle to make the connection between keeping witches at bay and getting treats during Holy Week, but I’m sure Swedish people would find some of our traditions strange. Reading how Easter and other holidays are celebrated around the world is not just educational but fun!