4 Interesting Palm Sunday traditions from around the world

To remember Jesus' arrival into Jerusalem, different countries mark the occasion in some unique ways.

One of the joys of the Catholic religion is that the various feasts often inspire some very wonderful celebrations all over the Christian world. And this is just the case for Palm Sunday, which marks the first day of Holy Week.

If you take a look below, you can see some rather beautiful traditions adopted by countries far and wide, and you might even recognize some closer to home.


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Spain: Procession of the donkey​

In some regions of Spain, particularly in Catalonia, a unique Palm Sunday tradition involves a procession with a float with a representation Jesus riding on a donkey, or alternatively, where an actual donkey carries a statue of Jesus. The ceremony symbolizes Jesus’ humble entry into Jerusalem.

Ethiopia: Hosanna celebrations​

Ethiopian Orthodox Christians celebrate Hosanna, their version of Palm Sunday, with colorful processions, hymns, and prayers. It’s a joyous occasion where palm branches are waved and traditional clothes are worn to honor Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem.


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Mexico: Palm weaving​

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