Easter is a special time of year for many Australians. It marks a four-day long weekend filled with family, food, and the beautiful autumn weather. Knowing the dates ahead of time helps you plan trips, sort out child care, and organize gatherings with your loved ones.
In 2026, Easter Monday falls on April 6. This follows Good Friday on April 3 and Easter Sunday on April 5. Because Easter dates change every year based on the lunar calendar, the holiday can shift between late March and late April.
Understanding how public holidays work across different Australian states can save you from unexpected surprises. This guide provides all the essential information you need to prepare for Easter Monday 2026. We will cover public holiday rules, trading hours, popular ways to celebrate, and tips for making the most of your time off.
Date and Public Holiday Details for 2026
Mark your calendar for the 2026 Easter long weekend. The dates are:
- Good Friday: April 3, 2026
- Easter Saturday: April 4, 2026
- Easter Sunday: April 5, 2026
- Easter Monday: April 6, 2026
Is Easter Monday a public holiday everywhere in Australia?
Yes. Easter Monday is a national public holiday. It is observed in New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, Western Australia, South Australia, Tasmania, the Australian Capital Territory, and the Northern Territory. Banks, schools, and most corporate offices close on this day.
School holidays and trading hours
Easter often aligns with the autumn school holidays in Australia. In 2026, many students will either start or finish their term break around the first week of April. This makes it a highly popular time for families to travel.
Trading hours vary by state. Good Friday and Easter Sunday are strictly regulated restricted trading days in places like NSW and Victoria. Easter Monday is generally more relaxed. Many major supermarkets, shopping centres, and retail stores will open, though they may operate on reduced public holiday hours. Small independent cafes and restaurants often choose to stay open, but they might add a public holiday surcharge to your bill.
How Australians Celebrate the Easter Long Weekend
The four-day break provides a perfect opportunity to rest and reconnect. Australians celebrate the Easter long weekend in several different ways.
Family gatherings and food
Food plays a central role in Australian Easter celebrations. Hot cross buns start appearing in bakeries as early as January. By Easter Monday, many families are enjoying the last of their chocolate eggs. It is common to host a relaxed barbecue lunch with friends or enjoy fresh seafood.
Travel and outdoor activities
April brings mild, comfortable autumn weather to most of the country. This makes the Easter long weekend one of the busiest times for domestic travel. Many Australians pack up their cars and head to coastal towns, national parks, or regional camping grounds.
Major events also draw large crowds. In Sydney, the Royal Easter Show is a massive attraction featuring agriculture displays, rides, and showbags. In Victoria, sports fans flock to the traditional Easter Monday AFL match. Across the country, local communities host festivals, markets, and outdoor concerts.
Planning Your 2026 Easter Break
Preparation is key to a stress-free holiday. With schools on break and many workplaces closed, flights and accommodation book out quickly.
Booking travel early
If you plan to go camping or rent a holiday house, secure your booking months in advance. Caravan parks in popular spots like the Sunshine Coast, Byron Bay, or the Great Ocean Road often fill up a year prior. Early planning ensures you get the best rates and your preferred location.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When is Good Friday 2026?
Good Friday is on April 3, 2026. It is a national public holiday in Australia.
Are shops open on Easter Monday in Australia?
Most major retail stores and supermarkets open on Easter Monday, but often with restricted trading hours. Independent shops may choose to close. Always check local store hours online before heading out.
Why does the date of Easter change every year?
Easter is tied to the lunar cycle. It falls on the first Sunday after the first full moon occurring on or after the March equinox. This means Easter Sunday can land anywhere between March 22 and April 25.
Do employees get penalty rates on Easter Monday?
Yes, most employees working under an award or enterprise agreement are entitled to public holiday penalty rates if they work on Easter Monday. Check with the Fair Work Ombudsman or your employer for specific details.
Make the Most of Your 2026 Long Weekend
Easter Monday 2026 offers a well-deserved break for Australians. Whether you plan to travel interstate, attend a local footy match, or simply relax at home with family, April 6 is a date to look forward to. Keep trading hours in mind, book your travel early, and enjoy a safe and happy holiday.