Easter Monday

Easter Monday History

Easter Monday commemorates the resurrection of Jesus Christ. It is associated with several traditions and customs, including specific church services and sharing special meals with loved ones. It signifies the end of the Holy Week, a period of reflection, mourning, and celebration encompassing significant events such as Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection.

In Canada, Easter Monday has a mixed historical context blending religious traditions and secular practices. The day came to be recognized as a statutory holiday in 1906 as part of efforts to establish a consistent national holiday calendar. For many residents, Easter Monday provides a welcome day off work or school, allowing them to extend their Easter celebrations. It is significant not just for its religious context, but also as part of the cultural fabric of the nation symbolizing spring renewal and hope.

While some Canadians use Easter Monday as a day of prayer and relaxation, others participate in outdoor activities to make the most out of the early spring weather. Many families use this day to enjoy the traditional Easter egg hunt, which is often extended throughout the weekend as a fun and colorful way to celebrate Easter. Easter Monday occurs the day after Easter Sunday, which is the first Sunday after the first full moon following the vernal equinox, thus, varying between March 22 and April 25.

Top facts about Easter Monday

• The Paschal full moon dictates the date of Easter every year. The Paschal full moon, in the Gregorian Calendar, means that Easter falls on the first full moon after the spring equinox, or March 21.
• Holy Week is the celebrated during the week leading up to Easter. It begins on Palm Sunday, continues on Maundy Thursday, Good Friday and ends on Easter Sunday. Not all countries include Easter Monday into their Holy Weeks.
• Easter Monday is the beginning of what is known as the Octave of Easter, a period of 8 days extending from Easter Sunday to the Sunday after Easter Day.
• Easter Monday has been a public holiday in Canada since 1879. However, in 1982, the Canadian government per the proposal of Canadian MPs Herb Gray and Robert Kaplan modified the observance of the Easter Monday holiday to be movable to the Monday following Easter Sunday.

In the News and Trending in Canada for Easter Monday

Easter Monday Top Things to Do

• If the weather permits, gather your friends and family for a picnic or outdoor barbecue. Enjoy some delicious food and engage in fun outdoor games or activities.
• Spread awareness on social media by using the hashtags #EasterMonday, #Easter, #Pascha and #EasterEggs.
• Create a scavenger hunt with clues leading to hidden treats or small gifts around your home or neighborhood. This can be a fun activity for kids or even for adults to enjoy together.
• The tradition of rolling painted eggs down a hill is enjoyed by many Canadians on Easter Monday. Participants compete to see whose egg can roll the farthest without breaking.