Easter Monday 2025, the first day of the Octave of Easter, marks the beginning of a 50-day period celebrating the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. This joyful season culminates with Pentecost Sunday. Unlike Christmas, Easter is a moveable feast, meaning its date changes each year. Traditionally, it is celebrated on the first Sunday after the first full moon following the spring equinox, resulting in a date that can fall anywhere between March 22 and April 25. This year, Easter Sunday falls on April 20, 2025.
In Spain, Easter is rich with traditions, one of the most notable being the giving of 'Monas de Pascua' by godparents to their godchildren on Easter Sunday. These festive cakes, often decorated with colorful eggs, symbolize the end of Lent and the abstinences that accompany this period. Families typically gather on Easter Monday to enjoy these treats outdoors, a tradition particularly prevalent in regions such as Comunidad Valenciana, Baleares, Murcia, Cataluña, La Rioja, and Navarra. However, it's important to note that Easter Monday is not a national holiday in Spain; it is only recognized as a holiday in specific autonomous communities.
Across the Atlantic, Easter Sunday is widely celebrated in the United States, even though it is not a federal holiday. Americans are expected to spend a staggering $23.6 billion on Easter celebrations this year. While many retail stores, including Walmart, Kroger, Food Lion, Wegmans, and Trader Joe’s, will operate on their regular schedules, several major retailers like Target, Aldi, Lowe’s, Best Buy, Costco, and Sam’s Club will remain closed.
When it comes to dining, most major fast-food chains, including McDonald’s, Taco Bell, and Wendy’s, will be open, although hours may vary by location. In contrast, sit-down restaurants such as Cracker Barrel, Olive Garden, and Golden Corral will operate as usual, while others like Applebee’s, IHOP, and Panera Bread might have modified hours. Notably, several popular chains, including Zaxby’s, Chipotle, CAVA, Raising Cane’s, and In-N-Out, will close their doors for the holiday.
In the financial sector, most banks will be closed on Easter Sunday, adhering to their usual Sunday schedule. However, online and mobile banking services will remain accessible. The New York Stock Exchange and Nasdaq will continue trading on Monday as per their regular schedule. Meanwhile, the U.S. Postal Service will not deliver regular mail on Easter Sunday, but Express Critical services will be available, and FedEx will operate on a modified schedule.
Easter Sunday, also referred to as Resurrection Sunday, Glory Sunday, or Holy Sunday, holds immense significance for Christians worldwide. It marks the end of Holy Week and commemorates the resurrection of Jesus Christ on the third day after his crucifixion, as documented in the New Testament. This day symbolizes joy, hope, and the renewal of faith for millions, representing Christ’s victory over death and the promise of eternal life for believers.
In Mexico, Easter Sunday is celebrated with various religious manifestations that differ by region. Common practices include solemn masses where the Paschal Candle is lit, religious processions that reflect the joy of the resurrection, and family gatherings. Additionally, in some communities, it is customary to give colored eggs as gifts, a tradition linked to resurrection and new life.
Pope Francis, during his Easter Sunday homily, emphasized the importance of seeking Christ “in the everyday,” urging believers to accompany “the tears of those who suffer.” He stated that the Resurrection should not be seen as merely a historical event but as a living presence in the lives of Christians. The Pope noted that the announcement of Easter is that “death” has not been able to retain Christ, who is no longer bound by the grave.
Reflecting on the Gospel accounts, the Pope highlighted the urgency and joy of the disciples as they rushed to share the news of the Resurrection. He encouraged Christians to embody this spirit of movement and discovery, asserting that faith is not a static solution but an active pursuit of a relationship with the living Christ.
The Pope also spoke about the Jubilee of Hope 2025, calling on the faithful to renew their hope and share it with humanity. He urged believers not to succumb to despair or worldly illusions but to embrace the joy of the Resurrection and seek out Jesus in their daily lives.
As Easter Sunday approaches, many are looking for ways to share the spirit of the holiday with friends and family. The article suggests using various symbols associated with Easter, such as crosses, eggs, and bunnies, to create meaningful messages to send via WhatsApp. Generative artificial intelligence tools and design platforms like Canva are recommended for creating personalized Easter cards and images. These tools allow users to express their creativity and share the joy of the season with loved ones.
In summary, Easter 2025 is set to be a vibrant celebration filled with traditions, family gatherings, and religious observances. Whether through the sharing of 'Monas de Pascua' in Spain or the bustling Easter festivities in the United States, the essence of this holiday lies in its message of hope, renewal, and the celebration of life.
