Good Friday

Good Friday is a special day that happens two days prior to Easter Sunday. During this day Christians worldwide set aside time to reflect on a central tenet of their faith: Jesus' crucifixion. Similarly, it is a legal holiday across Canada, except for Quebec, which is only partially celebrated.

What is Good Friday?

Christianity centers on the life and doctrines of Jesus Christ, whom followers believe to be the divine Son of God and his subsequent crucifixion and resurrection from the dead.

Immediately following the Passover meal, Jesus was taken into custody in the Garden of Gethsemane, tried, and ultimately given the death sentence. He was put on a massive wooden cross by his wrists and feet and allowed to die. This is why Christians worldwide use the cross as a sign of their faith.

Good Friday is known as mourning day. Throughout special Good Friday services, Christians reflect on Jesus's crucifixion and death, as well as its significance for their religion.

What is the Background of Good Friday?

On Good Friday, Christians worldwide remember the day Jesus Christ was crucified and killed. This event holds great significance in the Christian tradition as a symbol of the agony and sacrifice that Jesus underwent. The crucifixion was the climax of the rituals of Holy Week, which began with Jesus' triumphant return to Jerusalem on Palm Sunday. Also, the holy week involved washing his disciples' feet on Maundy Thursday and the Last Supper on Good Friday. The ecclesiastical calculation of the March equinox determines the date of Easter.

What are the Good Friday Traditions in Canada?

The customs and traditions of a country's population determine how Good Friday will be observed. In Canada, people celebrate the holiday by attending Easter services, eating hot cross buns, and sharing time with family and friends.

Church services

On Good Friday, worshippers can attend services at local churches to hear sermons and attend masses. Since Christians make up the vast majority of Canadians, it has become normal for them to participate in special church services on this day. Reenactments of Jesus' crucifixion and/or acts depicting his final hours are also often staged at some churches.

Spending time with your loved ones

Many Canadians, especially those of various faiths, observe Good Friday as an opportunity to gather with loved ones. Getting out into the fresh air and spending time with loved ones is their top priority on this special day. It's a great opportunity to get away, unwind, and take advantage of the extra day off. Concerts, shows, and other live performances are popular activities for non-Christians.

Food

Hot cross buns are the quintessential special-occasion food for Good Friday services. Most Canadians celebrate Easter with the classic treat of hot cross buns. It's a fruity sweet bun usually marked with a cross on top and flavored with cinnamon and other spices. This dish's popularity can be attributed largely to its spiritual significance for many people. Christian nations worldwide, including Canada, Australia, the United States, South Africa, the United Kingdom, New Zealand, and, Ireland serves hot cross buns on Good Friday.

Federal Holidays of Australia by Year