Easter 2026 Marks April 5 in the United States

Date and religious significance

Easter Sunday falls on April 5, 2026, ending the Holy Week that began with Palm Sunday. Catholics, Protestants and many other Christians will observe the resurrection of Jesus Christ with services ranging from solemn vigils to open‑air Masses.

Vatican’s Easter vigil

On the evening of April 4, Pope Leo XIV led the traditional Easter Vigil in St. Peter’s Basilica, urging the faithful to foster “harmony and peace” amid ongoing global conflicts. The Pope will deliver his Urbi et Orbi message the following morning before celebrating Mass in St. Peter’s Square.

Commercial impact in the U.S.

Easter is not a federal holiday, so most businesses keep regular Sunday hours. Major retailers are split: Walmart will remain open, while Target stores will be closed. Many other chains follow standard Sunday schedules.

What to expect

Families across the country plan church attendance, egg hunts and meals together, while the retail landscape reflects the holiday’s mixed status as both a religious observance and a regular weekend day.