A religious observance on the Friday before Easter commemorating the crucifixion and death of Jesus Christ, observed by Christians through fasting, prayer, and solemn liturgies.
Last updated February 26, 2026 · by the
Holiday Calendar Team
Good Friday originated in the early Christian Church as a commemoration of Jesus Christ's crucifixion, evolving from the unified Pascha observance. By the 4th century it was established as a distinct day of sorrow and fasting, with detailed liturgies described by pilgrim Egeria in Jerusalem around 381-384 AD.
Let's prepare ourselves for a day of reverence and reflection as we commemorate Good Friday on March 29. This solemn, yet vitally important Christian observance dates back to the very beginnings of Christianity itself and commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and his death at Calvary. On this day, believers worldwide remember with gratitude the ultimate sacrifice made for mankind’s salvation. History tells us that Good Friday rituals and traditions have developed over centuries, and now vary widely among Christian denominations. Still, the global Christian community remains unified in their recognition of the enduring hope and renewal this sacred day represents. Join us as we journey into the profound depths of Good Friday's meaning and emerge renewed and ready for the promise of Resurrection Sunday.
DEALS & OFFERS
Good Friday ran on April 3. Here’s who celebrated with offers this year.
TIMELINE
GET INVOLVED
EDITOR'S PICK
JOIN
CREATE
READ
PREPARE
WHY THIS DAY MATTERS
Despite its solemn nature, Good Friday is ultimately a celebration of hope - representing the hope that came from the sacrifice Jesus Christ made for mankind. This day reminds us to be grateful for this sacrifice and gives us the chance to express that gratefulness, whether it's through attending services, praying or reaching out to help others in our community.
On Good Friday, we remember the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and his death. But at the heart of this observance is the deeply spiritual concept of rebirth and renewal - the promise of Resurrection Sunday. It is a time of introspection, where we can examine and renew our own faith, taking inspiration from the ultimate sacrifice.
Good Friday encourages us to spend time in quiet reflection and prayer, which can be an enriching spiritual practice in our often busy lives. Whether you're spending time praying alone, with family, or participating in an online worship service, it's a special opportunity to reconnect with your faith and the larger Christian community.
A religious observance during the week before Easter commemorating the final days of Jesus Christ’s earthly life, including the Last Supper, crucifixion, and burial.
Observe Orthodox Good Friday in reverence, remember the sacrifices made, and commemorate this sacred day in the Christian calendar.
A religious observance during the week before Orthodox Pascha commemorating the final week of Jesus Christ’s earthly life through fasting, liturgies, and processions in preparation for the Resurrection.
A religious observance during the week before Easter commemorating Jesus Christ’s Passion, including his betrayal, trial, crucifixion, and burial.
