When is Easter 2026?
Sunday, April 5, 2026
Easter 2026 has passed
59 days ago
Easter 2026 Related Dates
Key dates in the Easter season for 2026.
| Holiday | Date |
|---|---|
| Ash Wednesday | Wed, Feb 18, 2026 |
| Palm Sunday | Sun, Mar 29, 2026 |
| Maundy Thursday | Thu, Apr 2, 2026 |
| Good Friday | Fri, Apr 3, 2026 |
| Holy Saturday | Sat, Apr 4, 2026 |
| Easter Sunday | Sun, Apr 5, 2026 |
| Easter Monday | Mon, Apr 6, 2026 |
| Ascension Day | Thu, May 14, 2026 |
| Pentecost | Sun, May 24, 2026 |
Easter Dates 2025–2029
Plan ahead with Easter dates for upcoming years.
How is Easter's Date Calculated?
Easter falls on the first Sunday after the first full moon occurring on or after the spring equinox.
The Basic Rule
The Council of Nicaea in 325 AD established that Easter would be celebrated on the first Sunday following the first full moon on or after March 21 (the ecclesiastical spring equinox).
The Computus
The calculation to determine Easter's date is called the 'computus' (Latin for 'computation'). It uses a 19-year lunar cycle called the Metonic cycle.
Date Range
Easter can fall anywhere between March 22 and April 25. The earliest Easter in the 21st century was March 23, 2008. The latest was April 24, 2011.
Western vs Eastern
Western Christianity (Catholic, Protestant) uses the Gregorian calendar, while Eastern Orthodox churches often use the Julian calendar, resulting in different dates.
April 2026 Calendar
Easter 2026 highlighted on the monthly calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Easter 2026?
Easter 2026 falls on Sunday, April 5, 2026.
Why does Easter change dates every year?
Easter is a 'moveable feast' based on the lunar calendar. It falls on the first Sunday after the first full moon on or after March 21 (the spring equinox).
When is Good Friday 2026?
Good Friday 2026 is on Friday, April 3, 2026, two days before Easter Sunday.
Is Easter a public holiday?
Easter Sunday is widely celebrated but not always a federal holiday. Good Friday is a public holiday in many countries and some US states. Easter Monday is a holiday in many countries worldwide.
What is Ash Wednesday?
Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of Lent, 46 days before Easter. In 2026, it falls on Wednesday, February 18, 2026.
More 2026 Holiday Resources
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