When is Good Friday 2026?

Good Friday marks the crucifixion of Jesus Christ at Calvary, and is observed on the Friday before Easter Sunday. It is one of the most solemn days in the Christian calendar. The origin of the name is debated: most scholars believe "Good" is used in the archaic sense of "holy" or "pious", as in "Good Tide" for Christmas.

The day is observed across Christian denominations with fasting, prayer, and the Stations of the Cross — a sequence of reflections on Jesus's journey to the cross. Many churches hold three-hour services from midday to 3 PM, the hours traditionally associated with the crucifixion.

Good Friday is a public holiday in most Commonwealth countries, much of Europe, and many parts of Latin America. Traditions vary widely: in the Philippines, some devotees undergo ritual flagellation; in Bermuda, kite-flying is a longstanding custom; in the UK, hot cross buns are a traditional food.