Meaning & Origin
Good Friday, or Karfreitag, is a deeply solemn Christian holiday. It commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and his death at Calvary. It is a pivotal and religious holiday that marks the culmination of Holy Week and is a day of mourning and fasting for Christians around the world. The name “Good Friday” is believed to derive from the archaic meaning of “good” as “holy.” In Germany, the day is referred to as “Karfreitag,” with “Kar” coming from the Old High German word for “grief” or “mourning.” The day is characterized by a quiet and reflective atmosphere, a stark contrast to the joy of Easter Sunday.
Good Friday will be celebrated on Friday, April 18 in 2025, and the following year, in 2026, it will take place on Friday, April 3.
| Year | Date | Applicable States |
| 2025 | April 18 (Friday) | All States |
| 2026 | April 3 (Friday) | All States |
How it’s Observed
Good Friday is a nationwide public holiday, with all schools, businesses, banks, and public offices closed. It’s considered a “stiller Feiertag,” or a quiet holiday, with strict regulations in some states that prohibit public dancing, loud music, and other forms of entertainment. This is to ensure the day’s solemnity is respected. Many Germans, even those who aren’t regular churchgoers, will attend special church services. A key tradition is to eat fish on this day, as it is a day of fasting and abstinence from meat. Many restaurants and cafes offer special fish dishes. The streets are notably quieter than on a regular weekend, and the overall mood is one of peace and contemplation.
Vacation Planning
Since Good Friday always falls on a Friday, it creates a built-in long weekend with Easter Monday. This is one of the most popular times for short trips and vacations in Germany. Many Germans use this extended break to visit family, go on a short city break, or enjoy an early spring hike. However, travelers should be prepared for closures. While major tourist attractions might be open, it is crucial to check in advance. The quiet, contemplative atmosphere of Good Friday is part of the experience, offering a chance to slow down and immerse yourself in a different side of German culture.
| Vacation Dates | Used Paid leave | Included holiday | Total vacation days | Applicable States |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 30th March 2026, 31st March 2026, 1st April 2026, 2nd April 2026 | 4 | 3rd April 2026, 6th April 2026 | 10 days | All states |
| 7th – 10th April 2026 | 4 | 3rd April 2026 6th April 2026 | 10 days | All states |