Holy Week in 2026 has come to a close, with Easter Sunday celebrated on April 5, marking the resurrection of Jesus Christ. The week began on Palm Sunday, March 29, and included significant days such as Maundy Thursday, when Jesus shared the Last Supper with His disciples, and Good Friday, which commemorates His crucifixion.
Easter Monday, observed on April 6, is a public holiday in more than 100 countries, including Canada, the United Kingdom, and much of Europe. However, it is not recognized as a federal holiday in the United States. Consequently, federal offices, banks, the U.S. Postal Service, and stock markets will remain open on Easter Monday.
The White House will continue its long-standing tradition of the Easter Egg Roll, an event that dates back to the 1870s. While first lady Nancy Reagan popularized the modern version of the event in 1981, it now features a lottery system for free tickets and offers guests commemorative wooden Easter eggs signed by the president and first lady.
Throughout the week leading up to Easter, various observances took place. Holy Week encompasses a series of important events in Christianity, beginning with Palm Sunday, which symbolizes Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem, where crowds welcomed Him with palm branches. Following that, Holy Monday, Holy Tuesday, and Holy Wednesday, the latter also referred to as Spy Wednesday due to Judas’ betrayal, set the stage for Maundy Thursday. This day marks both the Last Supper and the formal conclusion of Lent, a 40-day period of fasting, prayer, and reflection observed by many Christians.
Good Friday, observed on April 3, mourns the death of Christ on the cross, leading into Holy Saturday, a day of silence and reflection as Jesus rests in the tomb. The culmination of the week is Easter Sunday, when Christians celebrate the resurrection.
Questions about Easter Monday’s observance in different sectors include whether schools will close for the holiday. In Florida, some districts are out of session, although it is unrelated to Easter itself, as Hamilton County’s spring break occurs from April 6-10. Meanwhile, state offices, including the Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, will be operational.
There has been legislative interest regarding the status of Easter Monday as a public holiday in the U.S. The Easter Monday Act of 2025 aims to designate the day as a legal public holiday. Sponsored by Senator Eric Schmitt of Missouri and introduced into the Senate on April 10, 2025, the bill is currently under review by the Judiciary Committee. A related bill in the House, led by Representative Riley Moore of West Virginia, has not yet made progress.
As Easter Sunday concludes, communities continue to engage in meaningful traditions, from church services to family gatherings, serving as a reminder of the holiday’s significance as a period of renewal and hope.
