In the Philippines where majority are Catholics, two religious events are celebrated each year.  The birth of Jesus Christ on Christmas and His Resurrection on Easter.

Easter rite starts before sunrise.  Some Catholic faithfuls participate in processions that are grouped into two.  One will carry an image of the Lord Jesus and the other procession will carry an image of His Mother Mary which is covered with a black veil of sorrow. 

These two processions after walking for some designated distances will meet just outside the church where a stage was set up.  We call this meeting "Salubong", a re-enactment of that morning when Jesus who had been dead for three days resurrected and is greeted by His Holy Mother Mary.  A little girl dressed like an angel will pull up the veil from Mary's statue while other angel actors drop a rain of rose petals. 

There are variations around how the presentations are made among the different parishes.  Rural areas tend to bring in more elaborate details.  There are music, song, poems, and dances.  I would always remember the sound of drums and fireworks when the two holy images meet, it gives goosebumps as I imagine the reality of it.  Our Easter indeed inculcates a renewed spirit every time and strengthens a deeper meaning of religion. People flock to church right after this for the Holy Mass.  The rest of the day will be spent as a happy occassion to celebrate. 

Happy Easter!