History of Sunrise Services
The tradition of Easter Sunrise Services dates back to the early 18th century in Herrnhut, Germany. In 1732, members of the Moravian Church—known for their deep sense of community and devotion—gathered at dawn in a graveyard to celebrate Christ’s resurrection. As the morning light broke over the tombstones of their loved ones, they sang hymns, proclaiming their faith in eternal life and Christ’s triumph over death.
This moving tradition spread across Europe and eventually made its way to America. By the late 18th century, Moravian immigrants had introduced sunrise services to the United States, where they became an enduring Easter custom. One of the most well-known gatherings takes place in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, where the first service was held in 1772. To this day, thousands attend this annual celebration, uniting in song and prayer as the sun rises—a timeless symbol of hope, renewal, and the promise of new life.
Sunrise Services at Forest Lawn
The first Easter Sunrise Service at Forest Lawn-Glendale took place in 1924, high atop what was then called Mount Forest Lawn—now the site of the Hall of the Crucifixion-Resurrection. Before the Hall was built, the Tower of Legends, an artistically designed water tower, stood on the hill, creating a majestic backdrop. With an orchestra shell at its base and a lighted cross midway up the incline, these services drew thousands and were often broadcast live on the radio.
Today, Forest Lawn hosts Sunrise Services at all six of its Memorial-Parks.
Why Does the Date for Easter Change Every Year?
If you’ve ever wondered why Easter doesn’t have a fixed date like Christmas, the answer lies in the moon. Unlike holidays based on the solar calendar, Easter follows the lunar calendar, which means its date shifts from year to year.
The timing of Easter is guided by an ancient formula set by early Christian leaders. It is celebrated on the first Sunday after the first full moon on or after the spring equinox, which is traditionally considered to fall on March 21 (even though the actual equinox may vary slightly). Since the full moon follows a 29.5-day cycle, Easter can land anywhere between March 22 and April 25. If that full moon happens to fall on a Sunday, Easter is pushed to the following Sunday.
This method of determining Easter’s date also connects it to the Jewish holiday of Passover, which follows the same lunar cycle. Passover commemorates the Exodus story, a significant event leading to Jesus’ Crucifixion and Resurrection—making this link especially meaningful for Christians.
No matter when Easter arrives each year, its message of renewal, hope, and joy remains the same.
Fun Facts About Easter
- Easter’s name has ancient roots
The name “Easter” is believed to come from Eostre, the Anglo-Saxon goddess of spring and fertility, or from the German word “Ostern.” - Easter is the oldest Christian holiday
Easter celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ and is considered the most important holiday in Christianity, predating Christmas in its observance. - The Easter Bunny has ancient origins
The Easter Bunny legend stems from German folklore, where a hare laid colorful eggs for well-behaved children. German immigrants brought the tradition to America in the 1700s. - Eggs symbolize new life
Decorating eggs predates Christianity and symbolizes fertility and rebirth. Early Christians adopted the practice to represent the Resurrection. - Chocolate Easter eggs were first made in the 19th century
The first chocolate Easter eggs were created in Europe in the early 1800s, with Cadbury introducing the iconic chocolate egg in 1875. - Easter is one of the biggest candy holidays
Americans consume about 16 million jellybeans during Easter—enough to circle the Earth three times! - Easter lilies symbolize purity
The white Easter lily is a popular flower during the holiday, symbolizing purity, resurrection, and new beginnings.