Easter 2026: Dates, Traditions, and Planning Tips
Easter stands as one of the most significant celebrations in the British calendar, blending religious observance with cherished family traditions. In 2026, Easter falls in early April, offering wonderful opportunities for springtime celebrations. Whether you observe Easter for its religious significance or simply enjoy the long weekend with family, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about Easter 2026 in the United Kingdom.
Easter 2026 Key Dates
Easter Sunday 2026 falls on 5th April, placing it relatively early in the spring season. The key dates surrounding Easter are:
- Shrove Tuesday (Pancake Day): 17th February 2026
- Ash Wednesday (Start of Lent): 18th February 2026
- Mothering Sunday: 22nd March 2026
- Palm Sunday: 29th March 2026
- Maundy Thursday: 2nd April 2026
- Good Friday (Bank Holiday): 3rd April 2026
- Easter Saturday: 4th April 2026
- Easter Sunday: 5th April 2026
- Easter Monday (Bank Holiday): 6th April 2026
Good Friday and Easter Monday are bank holidays throughout the United Kingdom, creating a four-day weekend for many workers. Use our interactive 2026 calendar to see exactly where these dates fall and plan your celebrations.
Understanding Why Easter Dates Change
Many people wonder why Easter falls on different dates each year, unlike fixed holidays such as Christmas. The date of Easter is determined using a complex calculation based on the lunar calendar. Easter Sunday is the first Sunday following the first full moon occurring on or after the spring equinox (21st March).
This astronomical calculation means Easter can fall anywhere between 22nd March and 25th April. In 2026, with Easter on 5th April, we experience an early-to-middle placement that typically brings pleasant spring weather to the celebrations.
British Easter Traditions
The United Kingdom has developed rich Easter traditions over centuries, blending Christian observance with pre-Christian spring celebrations. Chocolate Easter eggs remain the most recognisable symbol of the holiday, with British consumers purchasing approximately 80 million chocolate eggs each year. The tradition of giving eggs symbolises new life and the empty tomb of the resurrection.
Hot cross buns, traditionally eaten on Good Friday, represent another beloved British Easter custom. These spiced sweet buns marked with a cross have been part of Easter observance in England since at least the Tudor period. Many bakeries and supermarkets now offer hot cross buns throughout the Lenten period.
Easter egg hunts have become a quintessential family activity, whether organised in back gardens, local parks, or at heritage properties run by organisations like the National Trust. The concept of searching for hidden eggs delights children and creates lasting family memories. Many communities organise public egg hunts, offering activities for families who may not have access to private outdoor space.
Morris dancing and egg rolling are traditional Easter activities still observed in various parts of England. Egg rolling involves rolling decorated hard-boiled eggs down hills, with the winner being the egg that travels furthest without breaking. Preston's Avenham Park hosts one of the country's largest egg rolling events each Easter Monday.
Planning Your Easter 2026 Break
The Easter bank holiday weekend provides excellent opportunities for short breaks and family activities. With Good Friday on 3rd April and Easter Monday on 6th April, many families enjoy a four-day weekend. Strategic use of annual leave can extend this further, with just four days of leave (30th March to 2nd April) creating a nine-day break.
Popular Easter destinations include the Cotswolds for its chocolate-box villages and spring lambs, the Lake District for outdoor adventures, and coastal resorts beginning to prepare for their summer seasons. Cornwall and Devon attract families seeking seaside breaks, whilst Scottish destinations offer dramatic landscapes awakening from winter.
Theme parks and attractions typically operate special Easter programmes, making this an excellent time for family days out. Easter egg trails at National Trust properties, interactive experiences at heritage sites, and special shows at farms with newborn animals all provide entertainment options.
Booking accommodation and travel early is advisable, as Easter represents one of the year's busiest travel periods. Prices rise significantly for the bank holiday weekend, though mid-week travel during the broader school holiday period may offer better value.
Easter Church Services and Religious Observance
For Christians, Easter represents the most important event in the church calendar, celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Churches across denominations hold special services throughout Holy Week, from Palm Sunday through Easter Sunday.
Good Friday services often take place at noon or 3pm, marking the traditional time of the crucifixion. Many churches observe a period of quiet reflection, and some hold Stations of the Cross services. Easter Sunday services celebrate the resurrection with joyful music, flowers, and often include baptisms and confirmation ceremonies.
Cathedral and major church services attract visitors beyond regular congregations, with the music and atmosphere of Easter worship appealing to many. If planning to attend a popular service, arriving early is advisable as seating can be limited.
Easter Cooking and Entertaining
Traditional Easter meals in Britain typically feature roast lamb, symbolising the Paschal lamb of the Jewish tradition and spring abundance. Accompaniments often include fresh spring vegetables such as new potatoes, asparagus, and peas. Simnel cake, a fruit cake topped with marzipan balls representing the apostles, serves as a traditional Easter dessert.
For those hosting Easter gatherings, planning ahead ensures a stress-free celebration. Easter Sunday markets and farm shops offer fresh seasonal produce, whilst many supermarkets stock specialty items for the holiday. Consider preparing elements in advance to allow maximum time with family during the long weekend.
Plan Your Easter 2026! Visit our UK calendar 2026 to see exactly when Easter and all bank holidays fall. Print a copy to help coordinate family gatherings and holiday plans.
Making the Most of Easter 2026
Easter 2026 arrives in early April, bringing with it the promise of spring and opportunities for renewal. Whether you observe the religious aspects of the holiday, enjoy secular traditions of eggs and family gatherings, or simply appreciate the extra time off work, planning ahead ensures a memorable celebration.
Start your Easter planning early by checking our interactive calendar tool for the exact dates and surrounding bank holidays. Consider booking accommodation and travel as soon as your plans are confirmed, and look forward to celebrating Easter 2026 with all the joy and meaning the season brings.