HOLIDAYS THANKS TO JESUS

​EPIPHANY | JANUARY 6 

A few astrologers (maybe three) saw an unusual star and traveled to Bethlehem to bring the newborn Jesus gifts. This is a holiday in many South-European countries. ​More info »

CARNIVAL | END OF FEBRUARY/BEGINNING OF MARCH 

This Catholic festival starts on a Sunday and lasts until Ash Wednesday: the start of Lent which lasts until Easter. More info »

LENT | THE 40 DAYS FROM CARNIVAL UNTIL EASTER 

Forty days of reflection, looking forward to Jesus’ death and resurrection. Many Christians will live a more temperate lifestyle than usual. ​More info »

PALM SUNDAY | THE LAST SUNDAY BEFORE EASTER

At the beginning of Holy Week. The day that Jesus was welcomed into Jerusalem as King. But within a week he was crucified. More info »

HOLY THURSDAY | 3 DAYS BEFORE EASTER

The last evening before his death, Jesus ate together with his students. Many churches celebrate this on Holy Thursday and also throughout the year with the Eucharist, also known as Holy Communion or the Lord’s Supper.

GOOD FRIDAY | 2 DAYS BEFORE EASTER 

The church commemorates that Jesus was sentenced to death and crucified. More info »

EASTER | A SUNDAY BETWEEN THE END OF MARCH AND THE END OF APRIL​

The most important of church celebrations. Jesus’ resurrection from the dead is commemorated on this day. More info »

ASCENSION DAY | THE THURSDAY 40 DAYS AFTER EASTER

Christians celebrate that Jesus ascended up to heaven 40 days after his resurrection. ​More info »

PENTECOST | 10 DAYS AFTER ASCENSION DAY 

On this day the Holy Spirit appeared, to strengthen the believers. This is also viewed as the beginning of the Christian church. ​More info »

ALL SAINTS DAY | NOVEMBER 1 

A Christian holiday in honour and remembrance of all the Roman Catholic saints. 

ALL SOULS DAY | NOVEMBER 2 

A day of remembrance in the Roman Catholic church of the souls of all dead believers. 

CHRISTMAS | DECEMBER 25 

The Germans celebrated Winter Solstice and the Romans Saturnalia, the festival in honour of Saturn the god of light. Through Christianization these festivals were replaced by the celebration of Jesus’ birth. ​More info »