A Guide to Traditions, Dates, and Celebrations
Whether you’re new to the UK or simply looking to understand more about local customs, the Easter holiday in the UK is an important cultural and religious occasion worth knowing about. Celebrated by many across the country, Easter brings with it a blend of Christian traditions, family activities, and some very British customs (yes, we’re looking at you, chocolate eggs!).
In this post, we’ll walk you through when Easter is, why it’s celebrated, what people typically do during the Easter holiday in the UK, and how it compares with other countries. By the end, you’ll feel more informed and ready to take part in one of the UK’s most widely observed springtime celebrations.
When Is the Easter Holiday in the UK?
Easter doesn’t fall on a fixed date each year. It’s a movable feast, meaning its date changes based on the lunar calendar. Easter Sunday always falls between March 22 and April 25, depending on the timing of the spring equinox and the full moon.
In 2025, Easter Sunday will be on April 20, with Good Friday on April 18 and Easter Monday on April 21.
In the UK, both Good Friday and Easter Monday are official bank holidays, meaning most people get time off work and many schools are closed for two weeks around this time, often referred to as the Easter break.
Why Do People Celebrate Easter?
Easter is a Christian holiday that celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ, which, according to the Bible, took place three days after his crucifixion on Good Friday. It’s considered the most important event in the Christian calendar, symbolising hope, renewal, and new life.
However, the Easter holiday in the UK is observed not only for religious reasons. Today, many people who are not religious also take part in Easter-related traditions and enjoy the time off with family and friends.
Easter Traditions in the UK
Easter in the UK blends religious observance with more light-hearted customs. Here are some of the most common traditions:
1. Easter Eggs
Chocolate eggs are everywhere in the UK during Easter. They symbolise new life and rebirth, and are often given as gifts especially to children. Supermarkets start selling them weeks in advance, and you’ll see a wide range from simple to luxury brands.
2. Easter Egg Hunts
This is a fun activity often organised for children. Small chocolate eggs are hidden around a garden, park, or even inside the house, and kids have to find as many as they can. Schools, community centres, and even National Trust sites often host public egg hunts.
3. Hot Cross Buns
A classic British treat, hot cross buns are spiced sweet buns with dried fruit and a cross on top. Traditionally eaten on Good Friday, they’ve become a popular snack throughout the Easter season.
4. Church Services
For those who observe the religious aspect of Easter, many attend church services on Good Friday and Easter Sunday. Some churches also hold sunrise services or Easter vigils.
5. Easter Sunday Lunch
Like Christmas, Easter is often marked by a big Sunday meal with family. Roast lamb is a traditional choice, served with seasonal vegetables and perhaps a chocolate dessert.
Easter Bank Holidays in the UK
The Easter holiday in the UK includes two public holidays:
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Good Friday (Friday before Easter Sunday)
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Easter Monday (Monday after Easter Sunday)
Many workplaces close, and services may operate on reduced hours. It’s a popular time for a short holiday or family gatherings. If you’re working in the UK, you’ll often hear colleagues planning long weekends or quick getaways around this time.
How Is Easter Celebrated in Other Countries?
The Easter holiday is observed around the world in different ways. Here are just a few examples:
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Italy & Spain: Known for elaborate religious processions and deeply rooted Catholic traditions.
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Germany: Families decorate Easter trees (Osterbaum) with painted eggs, and Easter fires are lit in some regions.
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USA: Similar to the UK with Easter egg hunts and chocolate treats, but the Easter Bunny plays a bigger role.
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Australia: Instead of an Easter Bunny, some people celebrate with the Easter Bilby, an effort to raise awareness about endangered animals.
Easter in the UK: A Time for Reflection and Celebration
Whether you’re taking part in a religious service, enjoying your chocolate eggs, or just appreciating the long weekend, Easter holiday in the UK is a time for rest, reflection, and connection. It’s one of the country’s key seasonal celebrations and offers a glimpse into both its religious heritage and cultural traditions.
If you’re living or working in the UK, joining in even small traditions like sharing hot cross buns with colleagues or chatting about Easter plans at work can help you feel more connected and confident in your new environment.
Want to Learn More About UK Culture?
Understanding holidays like Easter in the UK is just one part of integrating into British life especially if you’re working in a professional environment. Our English for Life courses go beyond the basics to help you sound natural, confident, and culturally aware in the UK.
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