Liturgical day · kjv
What Is Easter Monday?
Easter Monday extends the resurrection celebration beyond a single day. In many parts of the world it is a public holiday, a family day, and the second day of Easter rejoicing.
History & Origin
In the Christian tradition, Easter was never meant to be a single day. The ancient church observed an entire "Octave of Easter" — eight days of celebration, with Easter Monday as the first continuation. The Gospel reading for Easter Monday in many traditions is the Emmaus road encounter (Luke 24), where two disciples meet the risen Jesus without recognizing him. Easter Monday is a public holiday in most European countries, Australia, Canada, parts of Africa, and the Caribbean.
How It Is Observed
Depending on the country, Easter Monday is marked by outdoor gatherings, family meals, egg-rolling (a British and American tradition), and church services that continue reading the resurrection narratives. In some Eastern European traditions it is called "Dyngus Day" and involves playful water-splashing.
Scripture for Easter Monday
Luke 24:13
“And, behold, two of them went that same day to a village called Emmaus, which was from Jerusalem about threescore furlongs.”
Luke 24:30
“And it came to pass, as he sat at meat with them, he took bread, and blessed it, and brake, and gave to them.”
Luke 24:32
“And they said one to another, Did not our heart burn within us, while he talked with us by the way, and while he opened to us the scriptures?”
Matthew 28:8
“And they departed quickly from the sepulchre with fear and great joy; and did run to bring his disciples word.”
Acts 2:24
“Whom God hath raised up, having loosed the pains of death: because it was not possible that he should be holden of it.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Easter Monday biblical?
The day itself is not named in Scripture, but it commemorates events the Gospels record — particularly the Emmaus road appearance in Luke 24, which took place on the day of the resurrection and into the evening after.
Why is Easter Monday a holiday?
Historically the church observed an entire octave (eight days) of Easter celebration. Many nations kept Easter Monday as a public holiday even as the longer observance faded — giving families time together and extending the rest of Holy Week.
What do Christians do on Easter Monday?
Many attend continuing Easter services, reflect on the Emmaus story, spend time with family, or participate in Easter egg traditions. It is usually a day of rest following the intensity of Holy Week.
Is Easter Monday celebrated in the United States?
It is not a federal holiday in the U.S., though the White House Easter Egg Roll takes place on Easter Monday each year — a tradition dating to 1878.