Every year on the Sunday after the first full moon after the March equinox, we observe Easter Sunday. A religious holiday, yes, but one that is celebrated by people of all different cultures and beliefs. There are countless traditions that mark this holiday, but the South, as usual, often takes Easter Sunday one step farther than the rest.

From breaking out your nicest clothes for a sunrise service to reuniting with your extended family for an Easter feast, here are 10 ways you will know it is Easter Sunday in the South.

1. Sunrise Services

Rise and shine, it’s Easter Sunday! Church service is a given on Easter, but people in the South often take it one step farther. Countless communities and churches rise at the crack of dawn to attend church right at sunrise. Although very tiring, it is a symbolic and beautiful tradition that lives on.

2. Brunch at the country club

It is no Sunday morning without brunch! What is more perfect than a preppy brunch after waking up before the sun for church?

3. Easter Egg Hunt in your church clothes

We have already conquered church and brunch before noon, there is no time for changing! Eggs are hidden all around and kids in their dresses and dress pants run around racing to find the most eggs.

4. Pastel Dresses and Bowties

A formal event, yes, but a cute one! Pale yellow, lavender, and pink are the staple colors of this holiday making for some cute outfits! Pretty dresses for the women and nice suit with ties or bowties for the men.

5. White Shoes

Under no circumstances should you be seen in the South wearing white shoes before Easter. So, today is the day! Wedges, sandals, and any other type of shoe can now be worn in white! This is perfect because white looks great with pastels. :)

6. Easter Baskets

Presents for Easter? Oh yes. Personalized baskets filled with fake grass, loads of candy, and other goodies! You can thank the Easter Bunny for this one.

7. Pictures with the Easter Bunny

A picture of the kid screaming while taking a picture with the Easter Bunny is a staple in every household. Who can blame them though? Those bunny suits are creepy!

8. Easter Dinner

Arguably the best part of Easter Sunday: Easter dinner. Yes, I know we have already had a great brunch on this Easter Sunday, but you can never have too many great meals. This is a main event of this holiday and brings out the best cooks of the family. Veal, roast, and ham often taking the spotlight with delicious garden vegetables and potato salad as their sides make for a great holiday meal.

9. Decadent Desserts

You’re going to have push through the chocolate hangover for some of the best desserts of the year. In the spirit of spring, lemon squares are a necessity for Easter desserts. Coconut cake and a delicious pineapple upside cake straight from grandma's kitchen are the perfect way to end a great Easter Sunday.

10. Family Reunion

Remember that cousin that you have not seen since your uncle’s wedding last summer? Well, good chance you will see them on Easter Sunday! It is not a holiday in the South unless the entire family is together again sharing memories over tons of food!