Easter in Mississippi isn’t just about chocolate bunnies and colorful eggs. Rather, it’s a season wrapped in tradition, faith, and Southern hospitality. From small-town churches to family kitchens, these customs continue to bring Mississippi communities together. As always, in the Magnolia State, we have our own unique twists to celebrating Easter. Here are five Easter traditions that make this holiday special in Mississippi .
Sunrise Church Services
Easter Sunday often starts early across Mississippi. Sunrise services are held between 5:00 and 6:30 AM. These services celebrate the empty tomb and the resurrection of Christ. Families gather to honor Christ for being the ultimate sacrifice. These services are simple, sacred, and unforgettable. Sunrise services were a hallmark of my childhood.
Big Family Lunches (with Deviled Eggs Galore)
In true Southern fashion, Easter lunch is a big deal. After church, everyone heads home or to a relative’s house to eat together. Traditionally, turkey or ham is usually the star of the show, but side dishes like macaroni and cheese and potato salad make a full appearance. And no Mississippi Easter table is complete without deviled eggs—dozens upon dozens of them!
Community Easter Egg Hunts
Easter egg hunts happen everywhere. From schoolyards to a relative’s yard, children (and occasionally adults) gather to hunt for eggs. In some towns, local fire departments or city halls sponsor egg hunts for the entire community. T
here are often prizes and golden eggs that are most sought after. Sometimes, people even use real, colorfully dyed and decorated eggs for the occasion.
Dressing in Your Sunday’s Best
Easter is often when Mississpians pull out their best outfits. That means pastel dresses, seersucker suits, and fresh haircuts / hairstyles. For many, it’s a tradition to take photos after church. Easter is also one of the most exciting seasons to shop for. Shopping is done roughly a month or two in advance to ensure the Easter outfit is impeccable!
Giving Thanks
There are many parallels between Thanksgiving and Easter in Mississippi. Both holidays emphasize the importance of gratitude and indulging in traditional food. Oftentimes, in sunrise church services, people may choose to testify about their humility and thankfulness for Jesus’s resurrection.
A Time of Faith, Fun, and Togetherness
Whether you grew up here or just found your way South, Easter in Mississippi is more than a holiday. It is a time of reflection, joy, and gratitude. These traditions may vary slightly from town to town, but the heart behind them stays the same: faith, fun, and good food shared with the people who matter most. What is your favorite Easter tradition? Let us know in the comment section of Our Mississippi Home’s Facebook page!
