The tradition of making Lazarakia—small, sweet buns shaped like Lazarus—is a beloved Greek tradition observed on Lazarus Saturday, the day before Holy Week. It commemorates the miracle of Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead, as described in the Gospel of John (John 11:1–44), which took place just before Christ’s Passion. These buns, also known as Lazarus Buns, are shaped to resemble Lazarus wrapped in grave clothes, with his arms crossed, just as he is depicted in icons. The eyes are typically made from cloves or chocolate chips. Made with a lightly sweet, vegan dough, Lazarakia are a Lenten fasting food, and the tradition of baking them—especially with children—has become a cherished practice not only in Greece but among Orthodox Christian communities around the world.

In this blog post, I’ll share the recipe I use, how this feast is celebrated throughout the world, tips for baking with children, the meaning behind this tradition including the story, book recommendations, additional resources and how we celebrate this meaningful day as a community.