Why Does Easter Change Every Year?

If you've ever planned an Easter celebration, you might have noticed that the holiday doesn't fall on the same date yearly. Unlike fixed holidays like Christmas, which always occurs on December 25, Easter moves from late March to late April. But why does this happen?

The Lunar Connection

Easter's changing date is tied to the moon, specifically the first full moon after the spring equinox. The holiday is celebrated on the first Sunday following this full moon, known as the Paschal Full Moon. This means Easter can fall anywhere between March 22 and April 25.

The reason behind this calculation dates back to the early Christian Church. The date of Easter was set based on the lunar calendar rather than the solar calendar used by most Western countries today. The goal was to align Easter with Jewish Passover, which also follows a lunar schedule, since the Bible describes Jesus' resurrection occurring shortly after Passover.

When is Easter in 2025?

In 2025, Easter Sunday will be observed on April 20. Consequently, Good Friday will fall on April 18, and Easter Monday on April 21, creating a four-day weekend in many countries, including the United Kingdom.

Eastern vs. Western Easter Dates

Adding to the complexity, Eastern Orthodox churches often celebrate Easter on a different date than Western Christian churches. This discrepancy arises because the Orthodox Church follows the Julian calendar, while most Western churches use the Gregorian calendar. The Julian calendar runs about 13 days behind the Gregorian calendar, which can cause Orthodox Easter to fall on a different Sunday, sometimes as much as a month later.

How This Affects Easter Traditions

Since Easter shifts every year, so do the celebrations that surround it. Whether you're planning a family brunch, an egg hunt, or a festive gathering, the moving date means you might experience a chilly early-spring Easter one year and a warm, sunny Easter the next. This variability is why Easter menus often feature a balance of fresh spring flavors that work in various weather conditions.

Celebrate Easter with Luxe Bites

No matter when Easter falls, one thing remains constant—it's the perfect time to indulge in delicious food with loved ones. Elevate your holiday gathering with Luxe Bites' Easter Charcuterie Board this year. Beautifully arranged with premium cheeses, expertly cured meats, fresh seasonal fruits, and delightful springtime touches, it's a showstopping addition to your Easter table.

Let Luxe Bites take care of the details so you can focus on what matters most—making memories. Order your Easter charcuterie board today and enjoy a feast worthy of the occasion.