Easter Traditions from Around the World – Contessi Style

At Contessi Properties, we’re lucky to be surrounded by a vibrant and multicultural team. While we all come together under one roof in Perth, our Easter traditions span countries, cultures, and generations.

This time of year means something a little different to each of us — whether it’s a cherished family recipe passed down through generations, a creative cultural hybrid, or a weekend away at the rodeo! Here's a glimpse into how some of us at Contessi celebrate Easter.

Italy: Sweet, Symbolic, and Shaped Like a Dove

For Filippo, Easter brings back memories of Colomba di Pasqua — a soft, sweet Italian bread shaped like a dove (if you squint!). It's similar to panettone but topped with almond icing and pearl sugar, symbolising peace and renewal. Lightly citrusy and always beautifully wrapped, it’s an Easter staple across Italian households.

Portugal: A Cinnamon-Scented Morning

Marcia’s home smells like comfort at Easter — the creamy scent of Arroz Doce (Portuguese rice pudding) simmering on the stove. Flavoured with lemon peel and cinnamon, then topped with a cinnamon pattern (each family has their own signature design!), it’s technically dessert, but best enjoyed cold from the fridge the next morning, coffee in hand, before the Easter egg hunt begins.

New Zealand Meets Italy… with a Rodeo Twist

Rob and his Swedish wife have created a fun hybrid of traditions at home — they call it “Sw-Easter.” Think: a feast of traditional Swedish dishes and, more recently, a new family ritual of heading to the Boyup Brook Rodeo for the long weekend. A bit unconventional? Maybe. But it’s a tradition they now wouldn’t miss.

Poland: Wielkanoc

Magda says it best — Polish Easter is all about the egg. From pisanki (hand-decorated eggs) to the traditional święconka basket that’s taken to church to be blessed, the holiday is rich with symbolism and family customs. For her, Easter always includes a bowl of warm żurek (sour rye soup) and sałatka jarzynowa, a much-loved veggie salad that’s basically mandatory on Polish holiday tables. While it’s autumn in Australia, in Poland, Easter marks the arrival of spring — and the table is always as colourful as the season.

Portugal (Part 2): The Star of the Table

For Paulette, Easter is all about the bacalhau. This traditional Portuguese salt cod dish is often the star of the show — served with potatoes, onions, and plenty of olive oil, or baked into rich, comforting casseroles. It’s hearty, humble, and full of love — just like the family feasts she remembers growing up.

India: A Sweet Treat Passed Down with Love

Sonia’s Easter wouldn’t be complete without Kozhukatta — delicate coconut rice balls filled with jaggery and cardamom, then steamed to perfection. They fill the house with warmth and spice, and are best eaten warm with a cup of chai, surrounded by family and laughter.

Calabria: Coffee, Bread, and Sprinkles

Louie’s Easter mornings start with Cuzzupa — a traditional Calabrese bread that’s slightly sweet and sometimes topped with sprinkles or whole eggs. It’s the kind of no-yeast bread that’s made for dipping into a cappuccino. Simple, nostalgic, and the perfect way to begin the day.

A Little Bit of Everywhere

While we may be in Perth, Easter at Contessi is a cultural mosaic — blending old traditions with new ones, passing down recipes, and finding joy in both the little moments and the big feasts.

From our team to your family, however you celebrate — we wish you a peaceful, happy Easter filled with love (and maybe a little too much chocolate).

Contessi Team