Easter Sunday takes place annually on a moving date, due to being decided by the lunar calendar. Specifically, it is the first Sunday after the first full moon occurring on or after the spring equinox, meaning that Easter can fall anywhere between March 22 and April 25. This year, it takes place on Sunday, April 5.
In Christian tradition, this is among the most important holidays, and even the days leading up to Easter Sunday are significant. Altogether, they are referred to as Holy Week, the final week of the season of Lent, and each holiday commemorates a significant event in the story of the last days in the life of Christianity’s major figure, Jesus Christ.
Palm Sunday falls on the Sunday before Easter and took place on March 29 this year. It references the story of Jesus’ arrival to the city of Jerusalem and its people laying palm branches in his path in respect. Observers will weave their own palm branches into crosses, and each year’s palms are burned the next year to make the ashes used for Ash Wednesday.
Holy Thursday falls on the Thursday before Easter and takes place on April 2 this year. It commemorates the story of the Last Supper shared by Jesus and his disciples. Observers may hold ritual reenactments of the event and/or foot-washing ceremonies, as Jesus was said to have done for his closest followers.
Good Friday takes place on April 3 this year. It is a solemn holiday commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus. Observers may fast or attend special church services.
Easter Sunday takes place on April 5, and is a joyful holiday celebrating the story of the resurrection of Jesus after three days. Observers may attend longer-than-typical church services and gather with loved ones for a meal. Often, children will be gifted Easter baskets filled with candy, toys, or other small gifts, paint eggs in festive colors and patterns, and participate in Easter egg hunts, often for plastic eggs with small prizes inside.
Easter is not a federal holiday, so businesses, banks, and government buildings should be operating on normal Sunday hours. However, due to the fact that it is a major religious holiday, you may still want to call ahead to make sure establishments are open, and consider making any reservations at restaurants ahead of time.
If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact us anytime at info@gravityintprog.com. Stay safe and healthy, and Happy Easter!
