No figs after Easter

There is a well-known saying ‘figs after Easter’ that is often used in Flanders. But where does that saying come from?

The phrase ‘figs after Easter’ has its origins in Catholicism. During Lent, people could not just eat what they want. There was a list, issued by the Church, stating what one could eat. Sweet articles were hardly mentioned, except for dried figs. This sweet dried fruit became very popular. Due to the great demand there was a lot of pressure on the import of these figs, and often something went wrong or there was a delay. Shipments of figs often arrived at their destination after the fasting season had ended and Easter already had been celebrated.

The dried figs and Spanish figs of Ranobo are still limited in supply. They are seasonal products and are typically available from October to March. Usually the figs are not available after Easter, so if you take the saying literally, it is correct!