Easter 2024: What Makes the Easter Date Move Around?
Easter in 2024 falls on Sunday, March 31. But have you ever wondered why Easter doesn’t have a fixed date like Christmas? It’s because Easter is what’s called a “movable feast.” This means its date changes every year. We’ve got all your Easter questions covered, from why its date changes to the earliest and latest Easter can be. Curious? Keep reading!
Easter 2024: When?
Mark your calendars: Easter Sunday in 2024 is on March 31. However, not everyone celebrates Easter on the same day! While most follow the Gregorian calendar, many Eastern Orthodox churches use the Julian calendar. For them, Easter in 2024 will be on May 5.
Dates for Easter:
| Years | Easter Sunday Gregorian Calendar | Eastern Orthodox Church Julian Calendar |
| 2024 | March 31 | May 05 |
| 2025 | April 20 | April 20 |
| 2026 | April 05 | April 12 |
| 2027 | March 28 | May 02 |
What’s with Easter Always Being on Sunday?
Easter is always celebrated on a Sunday. In 2024, that’s March 31.
What About Ash Wednesday and Lent?
Lent starts 40 days before Easter on Ash Wednesday (Sundays don’t count). In 2024, Ash Wednesday is on February 14. It’s a day many Christians go to church to get ashes on their foreheads as a sign of repentance.
Is Easter Always in March or April?
Yes, Easter is a “movable feast,” but it’s always between March 22 and April 25 in the Gregorian calendar. For the Eastern Orthodox Church, it can range from April 4 to May 8.
Most Common Easter Date?
Looking at a long period from 1600 to 2099, Easter most commonly falls on either March 31 or April 16.
And the Rarest Easter Dates?
March 22 is the rarest, followed by April 24 and March 23.
So, How Do We Determine Easter’s Date?
Easter Sunday is the first Sunday after the Paschal Full Moon, which is the first full moon on or after March 21. This links Easter to the lunar cycle and the March equinox.
Paschal Full Moon? What’s That?
“Paschal” comes from “Pascha,” meaning Passover. The Paschal Full Moon was set centuries ago and might not always match the actual astronomical full moon.
Golden Number?
This is part of a 19-year cycle used to predict moon phases and, hence, Easter’s date. For example, the Golden Number for 2024 is 11.
Understanding Easter
Easter celebrates Jesus Christ’s resurrection, symbolizing hope and renewal. It’s the highlight of the Christian calendar, ending Lent and leading into a season of celebration.
Origins of the Word “Easter”
The word “Easter” has varied origins, possibly from ancient festivals or terms for dawn. Regardless of its origins, Easter today is a day of joy, celebrating the resurrection of Christ.
Enjoy Easter!
Easter is also a time for traditional foods and celebrating spring. Looking for recipe ideas? Check out our favorite Easter recipes.
Happy Easter
We’re sending our best wishes for a Happy Easter and a beautiful spring season to everyone!
