When is Easter 2025? Exact Date, Timings for School Breaks, and Why the Bank Holiday Weekend is Different This Year

Easter 2025 is just around the corner, and Britons are already gearing up for a delightful blend of religious observances, family gatherings, and, of course, indulging in hot-cross buns and Easter eggs. But when exactly is Easter 2025, and why does the date shift every year? Let’s dive into everything you need to know about Easter 2025, including the exact date, school break timings, and why this year’s bank holiday weekend is different from last year’s.

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When is Easter 2025?

Easter Sunday in 2025 will fall on April 20, nearly a month later than in 2024. This means:

• Good Friday: April 18, 2025

• Easter Monday: April 21, 2025

For those in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, this creates a four-day bank holiday weekend, perfect for family celebrations, Easter egg hunts, and religious observances. However, Scotland does not formally recognize Easter Monday as a nationwide bank holiday, though some local authorities may acknowledge it due to its religious significance.

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Why Does Easter’s Date Change Every Year?

Unlike fixed holidays like Christmas, Easter’s date is determined by the lunar calendar. It is celebrated on the first Sunday following the first full moon after the vernal equinox (around March 21). This connection to the lunar cycle means Easter can fall anywhere between March 22 and April 25.

• The earliest Easter Sunday occurred on March 22, 1818, and won’t happen again until at least 2285.

• The latest Easter Sunday was celebrated on April 25, 1943.

In 2025, Easter Sunday falls on April 20, making it a relatively late celebration compared to recent years.

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School Breaks for Easter 2025

Families can look forward to a two-week Easter holiday in 2025. Most schools across the UK will close from April 7 to April 21, with pupils expected to return to classrooms on Tuesday, April 22. However, it’s important to note that holiday schedules can vary by region, so parents are advised to check with their children’s schools for specific term dates.

This break comes shortly after the February half-term, giving families plenty of opportunities to plan trips, Easter egg hunts, and other festive activities.

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Easter 2025 Bank Holiday Weekend

The Easter bank holiday weekend is a highlight of the spring calendar. Here’s what to expect:

• Good Friday (April 18): A day of religious observance marking the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.

• Easter Sunday (April 20): Celebrations of the resurrection, often accompanied by church services, family meals, and Easter egg hunts.

• Easter Monday (April 21): A day off for many, perfect for extending the festivities or enjoying a relaxing long weekend.

While England, Wales, and Northern Ireland enjoy a four-day weekend, Scotland’s bank holiday schedule differs, with Easter Monday not being a nationwide holiday.

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The Significance of Easter

Easter is one of the most important events in the Christian calendar, marking the resurrection of Jesus Christ. However, over the years, it has also become a time for family gatherings, festive meals, and fun traditions like Easter egg hunts.

The period leading up to Easter, known as Lent, begins on Ash Wednesday and involves 40 days of fasting and penance. Lent is preceded by Shrove Tuesday, also known as Pancake Day, when families enjoy pancakes to use up rich foods before the fasting period begins.

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Easter 2025: A Time for Celebration

Whether you’re planning to attend church services, organize an Easter egg hunt, or simply enjoy a long weekend with loved ones, Easter 2025 promises to be a memorable occasion. With the holiday falling on April 20, families have plenty of time to prepare for the festivities.