Easter Monday

Easter Monday History

Easter Monday marks the end of the Holy Week and often concludes the Easter celebrations. It is associated with the belief in the resurrection of Jesus Christ as per the Christian faith. It carries significance in the Christian liturgical calendar, serving as an opportunity for continuing reflection upon the events of Holy Week. Easter Monday is also linked with various customs and traditions, differing across countries depending on cultural norms and Church practice.

The tradition of observing Easter Monday is largely based in Christian history, correlating to the biblical accounts of Jesus's resurrection. In Sweden, Easter Monday is a public holiday. Historically, Swedish people are predominantly Lutheran, and thus, Easter holds great importance in their religious calendar. Easter Monday allows the faithful to extend their reflection on the Easter period's spiritual significance.

In Sweden, Easter Monday is generally a day of rest and quiet reflection following the Easter festivities. People may attend church services, while others might spend time with family and friends, taking advantage of the springtime weather. Outdoor activities such as egg rolling competitions and picnics are popular, particularly among children. Additionally, bonfires, a Swedish Easter tradition, continue from Easter Sunday into Easter Monday. The specific date of Easter Monday varies each year, as it falls on the day after Easter Sunday, which itself is determined by the lunar calendar and usually occurs 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.
• A unique Swedish tradition is "påskkärring," which literally translates to "Easter witch." On Easter Monday, children often dress up as witches and go door-to-door, much like trick-or-treating during Halloween in the United States.
• In rural areas of Sweden, bonfires or "påskbål" are very common on Easter Monday. The tradition comes from the belief that bonfires would keep the witches away who are thought to fly to a mountain named Blåkulla on this day.

In the News and Trending in Sweden 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.
• In Sweden, Easter is often celebrated with family and loved ones. Arrange a gathering or a small party with relatives or close friends. Enjoy a traditional Swedish Easter feast together, which may include dishes like cured salmon, herring, lamb, or traditional sweets.
• Since Easter usually falls in early spring, many Swedes take advantage of the holiday to spend time outdoors. Go for a long walk or hike in the beautiful Swedish countryside or visit a local park.