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Good Friday

Friday, April 18, 2025

📅Past
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About This Holiday

Federal Holiday

A Christian holiday commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.

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History

Good Friday has been a statutory holiday in Canada since Confederation. It's one of the most widely observed Christian holidays in the country. The day is marked by solemn religious observances and is considered a day of mourning in the Christian calendar. All provinces and territories recognize it as a statutory holiday.

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Traditions

Many Christians attend church services, particularly the Stations of the Cross or Good Friday liturgy. Hot cross buns are traditionally eaten. Some people observe fasting or abstain from meat. Many retail stores and businesses close or have reduced hours. In Quebec, the day is called 'Vendredi Saint.'

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Fun Facts

  • Good Friday is one of only five federal statutory holidays in Canada
  • Some provinces prohibit the sale of alcohol on Good Friday
  • The tradition of eating hot cross buns dates back to medieval England but is popular in Canada
  • Good Friday is a statutory holiday in all Canadian provinces and territories

Good Friday in Coming Years

2025
April 18
Friday
2026
April 3
Friday