When is Orthodox Easter?
In 2026, Orthodox Easter falls on Sunday, April 12, 2026. It is an observance rather than a federal holiday, so federal offices and most businesses follow their normal schedules.
History of Orthodox Easter
Orthodox Easter celebrates the resurrection of Jesus and stands at the centre of the Eastern Christian liturgical year. In Palestine, it is observed by communities whose churches use the Orthodox Paschal calendar. The dates can differ from Western Easter, a visible reminder of the varied rites and calendars that have long coexisted in the Holy Land.
The General Personnel Council recognises Eastern Easter as leave for Christian public employees, rather than listing it among the universal government closures. Worship may extend from Holy Saturday night into Easter morning, followed by family meals, greetings and parish gatherings. The displayed date is calculated for planning; local church announcements are the best guide to worship and access.
Orthodox Easter falls on April 12 in 2026, one week after Western Easter. The employee guide distinguishes Eastern and Western Christian leave, while the annual diplomatic list uses the broader word ‘Easter’; neither source supports describing every PA office as closed on both Sundays. Greek Orthodox and other Eastern congregations maintain their own parish schedules, and Armenian practice in Jerusalem requires separate confirmation. Because permits, checkpoints, conflict and church decisions can affect movement, the calculated date identifies the feast but does not promise access to Jerusalem or any particular ceremony.
How Orthodox Easter is observed
An Eastern Christian observance with calendar-specific leave for eligible Christian public employees; it is not a universal government closure.
Traditions of Orthodox Easter
Resurrection liturgy
Orthodox parishes gather for late-night vigils and joyful Easter services proclaiming the resurrection through scripture, hymns, candles and bells.
Breaking the fast
Families share meat, decorated eggs, sweets and Easter greetings after the Lenten fast, with recipes differing among Palestinian church communities.
Parish hospitality
Church communities organise visits, meals and children's activities when local conditions permit, while clergy issue the authoritative worship timetable.
Dates and observance rules are checked against the official Palestinian official and legal guidance. Lunar dates, annual government notices and local-service schedules should be confirmed against official notices.
History sources: State of Palestine General Personnel Council: official holidays, Official Gazette: Council of Ministers 2026 holiday decision, State of Palestine Ministry of Foreign Affairs: Diplomatic List 2026.
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