Good Friday is the Friday that comes before Easter Sunday. It is the date that Jesus Christ was crucified in the Christian religious. It is largely celebrated by Christians, while non-religious individuals simply enjoy the day off work. Good Friday in Canada marks the start of the long weekend, which ends on Easter Monday.
Upcoming Dates & Where They Are Celebrated
Good Friday is observed everywhere in Canada, along with Easter Sunday. Here are the upcoming dates to mark your holiday calendar:
- Friday, April 14, 2017
- Friday, March 30, 2018
- Friday, April 19, 2019
- Friday, April 10, 2020
- Friday, April 2, 2021
- Friday, April 15, 2022
- Friday, April 7, 2023
- Friday, March 29, 2024
- Friday, April 18, 2025
Where Is Good Friday Considered A Holiday?
Good Friday is considered a holiday in every single province. Although the observation is largely Christian, Good Friday marks a three or four day weekend. Many places of work choose to offer Good Friday and Easter Monday off to their employees. This allows a four day weekend, which many take advantage of to go and visit distant family members. Many also take the opportunity to go camping or enjoy a simple holiday. On Good Friday, many businesses will be closed. All government and postal services are unavailable. Public transportation to will only offer holiday scheduling, or not run at all. There will be a short list of businesses that remain open, by choice. However, many stores will be closed for the entire day. Schools will not be open on Good Friday or Easter Monday.
Festivities & Events During Good Friday
Good Friday is celebrated by religious individuals often with church sermons and passages from the bible. Since it represents the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, many will offer prayers for their saviour as well. Many individuals will also choose to fast for the day. For the families that aren't religious, Good Friday may mark the beginning of a holiday weekend. Depending on a four or three day allowance, families may choose to travel or stay home. Easter Sunday is often celebrated with a large meal, so many will travel to visit family for the weekend.
A Brief History Of Good Friday
Good Friday is the date that Jesus Christ was crucified. It's an important date in the Christian world, being the drastic sacrifice that Jess Christ made for his people. However, to non-religious people there is little to no history associated with Good Friday.