When is Easter 2026: Date, Holy Week schedule and what to expect

Easter in 2026 falls on Sunday, April 5, 2026 (Eastern Time). The date sets the rhythm for Holy Week observances, church services and many family traditions across the United States and other countries that follow the Western Christian calendar.

Key Holy Week and observance dates (Eastern Time)

• Palm Sunday: March 29, 2026 — Marks the start of Holy Week and commemorates the entry of Jesus into Jerusalem.
• Maundy Thursday: April 2, 2026 — Observed in the evening with foot-washing rites and Last Supper remembrances in many congregations.
• Good Friday: April 3, 2026 — A day of solemn services, fasting and reflection for many Christians.
• Holy Saturday: April 4, 2026 — Vigil services are commonly held at night leading into Easter Sunday.
• Easter Sunday: April 5, 2026 — Celebrations of the resurrection, sunrise services, and festive family gatherings.

Why Easter moves each year and what that means for planning

Easter’s date varies because it is determined by a combination of solar and lunar calendars: it falls on the first Sunday after the first full moon that occurs on or after the vernal equinox. For the Western churches this equinox is fixed on March 21. That calculation means Easter can occur as early as March 22 and as late as April 25. In 2026, the timing places the holiday on April 5.

For people making travel, event or retail plans, knowing the date in advance is useful. Expect higher demand for travel and accommodations the weekend before and after Easter, particularly in destinations with major religious or family-oriented events. Retailers often stock seasonal merchandise weeks ahead, and many schools schedule spring breaks to align with Holy Week or the Easter weekend.

What to watch for in 2026: services, community events and public observances

Religious communities typically announce schedules for special services — including observances for Maundy Thursday, Good Friday liturgies, and Easter Vigil — well in advance. Parades, community egg hunts and charity drives also concentrate around this period. Municipalities and transit agencies sometimes adjust service schedules for high-attendance events, so checking local notices closer to the date is advisable.

International travelers should note that some countries using different liturgical calendars may celebrate Easter on other dates; the April 5 date applies to Western Christian observances in Eastern Time. For families planning gatherings, coordinating calendars early helps secure venues and travel arrangements and avoids conflicts with spring break or other holiday schedules.

In short: mark your calendar for Sunday, April 5, 2026 (ET) for Easter, and plan for Holy Week starting March 29 through April 4 if you expect to participate in services or community events.