Meaning & Origin
Easter Monday, or Ostermontag, is the day after Easter Sunday. This religious holidaycontinues the celebration of the resurrection of Jesus and provides a second day of rest and festivity. In Germany, it is a crucial part of the extended Easter weekend, offering a bridge between the solemnity of Good Friday and the return to everyday life. Its significance lies in allowing a prolonged period for families to gather and for communities to continue their celebrations. In Christian tradition, Easter Monday is often a time to reflect on the events following the resurrection, such as the appearance of Jesus to his disciples.
Easter Monday will be celebrated on Monday, April 21 in 2025, and the following year, in 2026, it will take place on Monday, April 6.
| Year | Date | Applicable States |
| 2025 | April 21 (Monday) | All States |
| 2026 | April 6 (Monday) | All States |
How it’s Observed
Easter Monday is a nationwide public holiday. This means that schools, offices, banks, and most stores are closed throughout the country. The day is generally relaxed and is often used for outdoor activities. Many families take this opportunity to go for a walk in nature, have a picnic, or visit friends and family. A unique tradition in some regions is the Osterwasser (Easter water) custom, where people, especially young women, would draw water from a stream on Easter morning before sunrise, believing it to have special properties for health and beauty. The atmosphere is generally quiet and peaceful, focusing on quality time with loved ones.
Vacation Planning
Since Easter Monday is always on a Monday, it’s the final day of the long four-day weekend. This makes it an essential part of any Easter vacation plan. Travelers can use this day to return home from their trips or to enjoy a final day of sightseeing before resuming their work week. The holiday ensures that businesses are closed, so travelers should plan accordingly. It’s a great time to explore city parks, go on hikes, or enjoy a meal at a restaurant that remains open, as many will be operating on a holiday schedule.
| 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 |