Easter Monday
Holiday
Easter Monday is the day after Easter Sunday and is celebrated in several countries across the globe as a religious observance or a public holiday.
Easter Monday is also known as Bright Monday or Renewal Monday. It is part of Bright Week, a period of celebration following Easter Sunday
Like Easter Sunday observes the resurrection of Jesus Christ, Easter Monday comes with its own set of traditions varying from religious observances to cultural festivities.
History of Easter Monday
The history of Easter Monday is pretty lengthy and diverse as it is influenced by different religious traditions, historical events and cultures.
Although there is no specific mention of Easter Monday in the Bible, it has developed into an important day in Christianity and other spiritual observances across the globe.
Easter in early Christianity, was not confined to a single day as it was part of a longer period of celebration including feasting and worship.
The day after Easter was also seen as an extended day of celebration often held with religious gatherings and processions.
In Orthodox and Catholic traditions, Easter Monday was considered part of the Easter Octave which referred to the eight days of Easter celebration following Easter Sunday.
It was a time for continued reflection on the resurrection and the message of renewal and hope.
During the Middle Ages, Easter Monday became a blend of religious observance and folk traditions.
In many European regions, special church services and processions marked the day, while communities also embraced public festivities, games, and social gatherings.
One of the most well-known traditions from this period is Śmigus-Dyngus, or “Wet Monday,” in Poland.
Rooted in ancient pagan spring rituals, this custom involved playful water splashing, symbolizing purification and the renewal of life.
Over time, it merged with Christian traditions, becoming a cherished Easter Monday practice.
By the 19th and 20th centuries, Easter Monday had evolved into a public holiday in many countries, incorporating both religious and secular celebrations.
In the United States, the White House Easter Egg Roll, established in 1878 by President Rutherford B. Hayes, became a beloved tradition where children roll eggs on the White House lawn, symbolizing joy and renewal.
In South Africa, Easter Monday was officially renamed Family Day after the end of apartheid, emphasizing unity and togetherness.
Across Europe, many countries continue to observe Easter Monday with parades, feasts, and outdoor festivities, keeping the communal spirit alive.
If the feast day of a major saint or someone's name day falls during Holy Week or Easter Sunday, it is often moved to Easter Monday to ensure proper recognition.
Celebrations Across The World
Easter Monday is a public holiday in many countries with unique traditions. Australia enjoys sports events, while Austria and Germany have symbolic church walks.
Canada gives federal employees a day off, and Central Europe celebrates Wet Monday, where boys splash water on girls for good luck.
Egypt marks Sham Ennessim with picnics and painted eggs, while Germany holds Easter egg races.
Ireland remembers the 1916 Easter Rising, and Italy’s Pasquetta is filled with picnics and barbecues. New Zealand extends the holiday for many schools.
Spain enjoys Easter mona, and the Netherlands observes the day quietly. The U.S. hosts the White House Easter Egg Roll and Dyngus Day. The UK has a bank holiday, while South Africa and Ukraine celebrate Family Day with loved ones.
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