Easter in France is welcomed with immense joy, splendor and gaiety

Paques´ is one of the major festivals in the country

Known as Paques in French, Easter is one of the major festivals in the country. The deep-rooted belief in Christianity among the French citizens and the secularism practiced by the country allows the festivity to adopt enhanced gaiety. In France, Easter also marks the first holiday of the spring season. The entire country basks in the festive spirit of Easter. Business goes sky high in malls, as every shop sees heavy rush for the upcoming celebration. There is a wide variety of dresses, decorative items and chocolate goodies, made especially for Easter that goes on display.

One of the important aspects of the Easter celebrations in France is that the church bells remain silent from Good Friday until Easter Sunday, as a token of mourning for the crucified Christ. During this time, all over France, mothers narrate tales to their children, explaining the phrase - 'the bells have flown away to Rome'.  It is said that the bells fly away to the Vatican City, on Good Friday, carrying away the desolation and distress of people who lament Christ's crucifixion, along with them. On Easter Sunday, the bells return, commemorating the resurrection of Jesus. The bells also bring lots of chocolates and eggs with them.