Experience Tradition: Sorbs Present Easter Customs - Berlin Welcomes Sorbian Easter Traditions for the First Time in 2026
The Sorbs, one of Germany's four officially recognised minorities, are bringing their Easter traditions to Berlin for the first time. Around 60,000 Sorbs live in Lusatia, and their cultural practices—like intricate egg decoration and horseback processions—are now being celebrated beyond their homeland. The event, named Sorbian Easter Market – Serbske jutrowne wiki, will open on 21 March 2026.
Sorbian Easter customs have long been cherished as intangible cultural treasures. Techniques such as the Wachsbossier method, where wax is used to create delicate patterns on eggs, will be demonstrated by folk artists. Visitors can join workshops to learn these traditional crafts firsthand.
The Saxon government has supported Sorbian heritage for decades. Institutions like the *Museum für Sächsische Volkskunst* in Dresden's Jägerhof will host an Easter exhibition from 21 March, including a dedicated workshop on 28 March. Meanwhile, Senftenberg Town Hall will offer egg-painting sessions on 2 April. Franziska Brech, the state's commissioner for Sorbian affairs, stresses the need to preserve the language and traditions of this unique community. While Easter horseback processions remain a key part of Sorbian culture, the Berlin event will focus on hands-on crafts and displays. Folk art schools in the Ore Mountains have promoted these traditions since the 1980s, ensuring their survival for future generations.
The Sorbian Easter Market marks the first time these traditions are showcased in the capital. Workshops and exhibitions will run throughout late March and early April, giving visitors a chance to engage with centuries-old customs. The event highlights ongoing efforts to keep Sorbian culture alive in modern Germany.
