### Easter in the Wine Country
Baja California, long known as a haven for Spring breakers chasing sun and cocktails, has transformed over the years into a treasure trove of hidden gems off the beaten path. Travelers venturing beyond the lively beaches and crowded bars are greeted with the unique beauty and culture of the region, offering a more authentic experience. One such cultural delight is the picturesque Easter celebration unfolding among the grapes and groves of the Guadalupe Valley.
Nestled amidst sprawling vineyards and lush orange groves, the enchanting En’Kanto winery embraces the Easter spirit with its charming egg hunt tradition. Each year, this family-friendly event captivates visitors, as children scamper through the vineyard in search of colorful eggs, courtesy of the estate’s own heritage chickens. This rare chicken farm is one of the few across Baja that specializes in purebred birds, famed for laying vibrant “rainbow” eggs.
The symbolic egg, a nod to rejuvenation and new beginnings, intertwines ancient traditions with the celebration of spring—a heritage passed from Pagan customs to modern festivities. Historically, the tradition of egg decoration and hunting dates back centuries, evolving from Martin Luther’s 16th-century Germany to a beloved global Easter tradition today.
During my visit, I was welcomed by Tom, Eva, and their spirited friend Cassie, the visionary behind the estate’s impressive chicken farm. Cassie’s passion for purebred chickens grew from a simple desire for fresh eggs to a thriving venture in poultry breeding. Here, titles like Chief Hen’Kanto Officer add a humorous touch to the serious business of breeding, as Cassie jovially dons T-shirts with chicken-themed quips.
Touring the farm, I was introduced to its eclectic fowl residents, ranging from the flamboyant to the avant-garde with dazzling plumages. Cassie explained the intricate “Chicken Math” of breeding, a delightful yet complex addiction where meticulous schedules guide egg incubation and chick hatching. There’s anticipation in every chick that hatches, a testament to Cassie’s dedication and the community’s growing interest in unique breeds.
As the farm contemplates selling its prized purebred offspring, visitors can look forward to seeing an array of new breeds, including the eagerly awaited Polish variety. Each season, the vibrant landscape of Guadalupe Valley, adorned with historical granite boulders and flourishing vineyards, complements this joyful celebration of life.
After strolling through these scenic vistas, guests can indulge in local wines and culinary delights at the open-air restaurant, savoring the farm’s fresh eggs in delectable dishes. A true jewel off the beaten path, the En’Kanto winery offers a boutique experience rich with nature, tradition, and warm hospitality.
### Easter Traditions Worldwide: A Global Snapshot
Easter celebrations captivate hearts and cultures across the globe, reflected in diverse traditions and culinary joys. From Germany’s age-old traditions to Latin America’s vivid street processions, the holiday bears witness to the fusion of faith, folklore, and festivity.
In the U.K., Egg Rolling competitions reign supreme, where participants race decorated eggs downhill—a fun-filled event symbolizing the rolling away of the tombstone from Jesus’s burial site. Across the pond, American White House Lawn Egg Roll reflects a similar playful spirit, cherished since the 1870s.
In the Mediterranean, the Greek Orthodox celebration bursts with lively processions and symbolic foods, like tsoureki bread and magiritsa soup, which embody the holiday’s sacred essence. Meanwhile, Italy’s “Pasquetta,” or Little Easter, inspires picnics and alfresco gatherings across the countryside, embracing the renewal of spring.
This Easter, wherever you roam, the universal themes of new life, community, and joy unite cultures in a celebration of beginnings and togetherness. These traditions paint a rich tapestry of humanity’s shared celebration of hope and renewal each spring.