Easter Monday

Easter Monday History

Easter Monday commemorates the resurrection of Jesus Christ, as recounted in the New Testament of the Bible. This day is characterized by various customs and traditions, which differ significantly from one region to another. The Observance typically involves religious activities such as church services and special meals. Easter Monday can also take on a secular meaning, with a host of non-religious activities taking place.

In The Netherlands, Easter Monday (Tweede Paasdag) has been recognized as a public holiday since 1815 but started being observed as early as the Middle Ages. Predominantly a Christian nation, The Netherlands marks Easter Monday following the Church's celebration of Jesus Christ's resurrection on Easter Sunday. Alongside the religious events, Easter Monday is also the culmination of Easter weekend, an extended weekend that signifies the onset of spring and the start of many spring activities.

Easter Monday in The Netherlands is celebrated in a variety of ways. Many folks attend church services, while others partake in outdoor pursuits such as cycling, hiking, or "bloesemtochten," a traditional walk or bike ride to observe blossoming trees. It's also the day of the annual Bloemencorso Bollenstreek flower parade, a spectacle featuring floats adorned with spring flowers. Easter Monday occurs the day after Easter Sunday, which falls on the first Sunday after the full moon that occurs on or soonest after the Spring Equinox.

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.
• In the past, there was a tradition in the Northern part of the Netherlands where girls would go out and hit boys with green branches and willows, called "Easter scourging." This was supposed to bring good luck and fertility. This tradition is almost extinct now.
• Another unique Dutch Easter Monday tradition called "Eirollen" or egg rolling, is observed in the northern province of Groningen. Participants compete to roll their eggs the furthest down the hill.

In the News and Trending in Netherlands for Easter Monday

Easter Monday Top Events and 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.
• Many people in the Netherlands go to church on Easter Monday. This is often followed by a family meal or picnic.
• One of the oldest theme parks in the world, Efteling is a great spot to visit during the Easter holiday. It's especially fun for families with children.