Good Friday is one of the most significant days in the Christian calendar. It commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and his death at Calvary. For millions of people around the world, this solemn day is a time for reflection, prayer, and remembrance.
If you’re planning ahead for 2026 or simply want to understand more about this important holiday, this guide covers everything you need to know. You’ll learn when Good Friday falls in 2026, what it means, how it’s observed globally, and whether banks and businesses close for the day.
When is Good Friday 2026?
Good Friday 2026 falls on April 3, 2026.
Good Friday is always observed on the Friday before Easter Sunday. Because Easter is a movable feast—meaning its date changes each year—Good Friday also shifts accordingly. Easter Sunday is calculated based on the lunar calendar, falling on the first Sunday after the first full moon following the spring equinox.
In 2026, Easter Sunday will be celebrated on April 5, making Good Friday April 3.
What is Good Friday?
Good Friday marks the day Jesus Christ was crucified on the cross. According to Christian tradition, this event took place in Jerusalem nearly 2,000 years ago. Jesus was arrested, tried, and sentenced to death by crucifixion—a common Roman method of execution at the time.
Christians believe that Jesus willingly sacrificed his life to atone for the sins of humanity. His death is seen as an act of profound love and redemption. While the day is somber, it is also viewed as a necessary step toward the resurrection celebrated on Easter Sunday.
The term “Good Friday” may seem paradoxical given the tragedy it commemorates. Some historians suggest “good” derives from “God’s Friday,” while others believe it reflects the ultimate good that came from Christ’s sacrifice—the promise of salvation.
How is Good Friday Observed Around the World?
Good Friday is observed in various ways depending on cultural and religious traditions. Here are some common practices:
Church Services and Liturgies
Many Christians attend special church services on Good Friday. These services often include Scripture readings that recount the events leading to Jesus’s crucifixion, known as the Passion narrative. Hymns, prayers, and sermons focus on themes of sacrifice, suffering, and redemption.
In some traditions, worshippers participate in the Stations of the Cross—a devotional practice that traces Jesus’s journey to his crucifixion through 14 stations or scenes.
Fasting and Abstinence
Fasting is a common practice on Good Friday. Many Christians abstain from meat and consume only simple meals as a form of penance and solidarity with Christ’s suffering. The specific fasting rules vary by denomination. For example, Roman Catholics traditionally avoid meat on this day and may limit themselves to one full meal plus two smaller ones.
Processions and Reenactments
In countries with strong Catholic traditions—such as the Philippines, Spain, and parts of Latin America—elaborate processions take place. These processions often include reenactments of the crucifixion, with participants carrying crosses through the streets or acting out scenes from the Passion.
In the Philippines, some devotees take part in actual crucifixions as acts of penance or devotion, though this practice is not endorsed by church authorities.
Quiet Reflection
For many believers, Good Friday is a day of quiet reflection rather than celebration. Families may spend time together in prayer or read religious texts that tell the story of Jesus’s final hours.
Is Good Friday a Public Holiday?
Whether Good Friday is a public holiday depends on where you live.
United States
Good Friday is not a federal holiday in the United States. However, many states recognize it as a state holiday. Government offices, schools, and some businesses may close in observance.
Financial markets—including stock exchanges—are typically closed on Good Friday. Banks may also have limited hours or be closed entirely depending on their location.
United Kingdom
In the UK, Good Friday is a bank holiday. Most businesses close for the day, including banks and government offices. Public transportation may operate on a reduced schedule.
Canada
Good Friday is a federal statutory holiday in Canada. Banks, schools, government offices, and most businesses close for the day.
Australia
Good Friday is a public holiday across all Australian states and territories. Shops typically remain closed or have restricted trading hours.
Other Countries
Many predominantly Christian countries observe Good Friday as a public holiday. This includes nations in Europe, Latin America, Africa, and parts of Asia.
If you’re planning to travel or send money internationally around this time, it’s wise to check whether banks and financial institutions will be open in your destination country.
Good Friday and Easter Weekend 2026
Good Friday kicks off the Easter weekend—a time when many people travel to visit family or take vacations.
Here’s how the long weekend looks in 2026:
- Thursday, April 2: Regular workday (though some people may begin traveling)
- Friday, April 3: Good Friday
- Saturday, April 4: Holy Saturday (the day before Easter)
- Sunday, April 5: Easter Sunday
- Monday, April 6: Easter Monday (a public holiday in some countries)
If you’re sending money to loved ones during this period, plan ahead to account for bank closures and processing delays.
Sending Money During Good Friday
If you need to send money internationally around Good Friday 2026, keep these tips in mind:
Plan Ahead for Delays
Banks and financial institutions may be closed on Good Friday in both your home country and your recipient’s country. Transfers initiated on or near this date may take longer than usual to process.
To ensure your funds arrive on time, initiate your transfer at least a few days before April 3.
Use Reliable Transfer Services
Money transfer services like Remitly allow you to send funds quickly and securely—even during holidays when traditional banks are closed. With Remitly, you can send money to over 170 countries with transparent fees and reliable delivery times.
Check Delivery Options
Some delivery methods—such as bank deposits—may be affected by holiday closures. Cash pickup locations or mobile wallet transfers may remain available even when banks are closed.
Before sending money during the Easter weekend, confirm that your chosen delivery method will be accessible to your recipient.
Understanding Cultural Sensitivity
Good Friday holds deep religious significance for Christians around the world. If you’re traveling or working with people from Christian communities during this time, it’s important to be respectful of their observances.
Avoid scheduling important meetings or events on Good Friday if possible. Recognize that many people may be fasting or attending religious services throughout the day.
Preparing for Good Friday 2026
Whether you observe Good Friday for religious reasons or simply want to stay informed about global holidays, knowing the date well in advance helps you plan effectively.
Mark April 3, 2026 on your calendar now so you can:
- Arrange travel plans around potential closures
- Schedule financial transactions ahead of time
- Show respect for those observing this meaningful day
Good Friday reminds us of themes that resonate across cultures: sacrifice, love, and hope for renewal. However you choose to spend this day in 2026, understanding its significance enriches your perspective on one of Christianity’s most important observances.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Good Friday?
Good Friday is a Christian observance commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. It is a solemn day of reflection, prayer, and fasting for many believers, marking one of the key events in the Christian faith.
Why does the date of Good Friday change each year?
Good Friday is tied to the Easter calendar, which follows a lunisolar system. It occurs two days before Easter Sunday and typically falls between late March and mid-April.
Is Good Friday a public holiday?
This depends on where you live. Many countries and regions recognize Good Friday as a public holiday, with closures of schools, businesses, and government offices, but others may not officially observe it.
How is Good Friday traditionally observed?
Traditions vary, but common observances include prayer services, scripture readings, reenactments of the crucifixion, and fasting. Some people also use the day for quiet reflection or acts of service.
Do all Christians observe Good Friday?
Not all Christian denominations emphasize or formally observe Good Friday. While it is central to Catholic, Orthodox, and many Protestant faiths, others may focus primarily on Easter Sunday.
Can non-Christians participate in Good Friday events?
Yes, non-Christians are often welcome to attend public services or events. Participating respectfully can offer a better understanding of the day’s significance and cultural importance.