Easter Monday, the day following Easter Sunday, is a Christian observance that continues the celebration of the resurrection of Jesus Christ. While Easter Sunday is the highlight of the Easter season, commemorating Christ’s triumph over death, Easter Monday is often a more relaxed day marked by both religious and cultural traditions. It falls on the Monday immediately after Easter, with the exact date changing each year based on the lunar calendar.

Religious Significance

Although not as prominent as Easter Sunday, Easter Monday is still considered part of the Eastertide—the liturgical season that begins on Easter and lasts for 50 days until Pentecost. In many Christian traditions, it serves as an extension of the joy of the resurrection and the renewal of faith. Some churches hold additional services or prayer gatherings to continue reflecting on the meaning of Easter.

A Public Holiday in Many Countries

Easter Monday is a public holiday in numerous countries across the globe, including much of Europe, Australia, Canada, the Caribbean, and parts of Africa. In these regions, government offices, banks, schools, and many businesses close for the day, allowing families and communities to come together for various traditions.

Traditions and Customs

Easter Monday customs vary widely depending on the country and cultural context. Common practices include:

Family gatherings and outdoor activities, such as picnics and barbecues. Egg rolling competitions and other games for children, especially in the UK and the United States. In Poland, it is celebrated as Śmigus-Dyngus or “Wet Monday,” a playful tradition where people splash each other with water, symbolizing cleansing, renewal, and fertility. In Italy, the day is known as Pasquetta, and families often take short trips to the countryside. In Australia, Easter Monday is a major part of the extended holiday weekend, with festivals, sporting events, and family outings.

Easter Monday in the United States

Unlike many other countries, Easter Monday is not a federal holiday in the United States. Most schools, businesses, and government offices remain open. However, some communities—especially those with strong Catholic or Eastern Orthodox traditions—may hold special events or church services to mark the occasion.

A Day of Reflection and Rest

For many around the world, Easter Monday is a day of rest, reflection, and continued celebration. Whether through religious observance or joyful customs, it offers an opportunity to pause and embrace the spirit of renewal and hope that Easter brings.