Easter Monday in Austria
Easter Monday is a statutory public holiday in Austria, and employees are generally entitled to an uninterrupted period of holiday rest. In Catholic tradition, the day recalls the Gospel story of the disciples on the road to Emmaus, which also inspires the Austrian custom of an Easter walk.[1][2]
A public holiday under Austrian law
Austria’s Arbeitsruhegesetz (Working Rest Act) names Easter Monday among the holidays covered by the law. It gives employees an uninterrupted rest period of at least 24 hours, subject to rules and permitted exceptions for particular work. The statute also says that when a holiday falls on a Sunday, Sunday-rest provisions apply; Easter Monday falls on a Monday, so that provision does not apply to it.[1]
The Emmaus story and the Easter season
Easter celebrates the Christian belief in Jesus’ resurrection. The Archdiocese of Vienna explains that the Emmaus story is central to the church’s observance on the second Easter holiday: two grieving disciples travel from Jerusalem, and Jesus joins them before they recognize him. The story is told in the Gospel of Luke.[2]
Easter walks in Austria
An Easter walk, sometimes called an Emmaus walk, connects that Gospel story with a walk outdoors. The Austrian Liturgical Institute describes the Easter walk as a longstanding part of family Easter activities and presents the Emmaus disciples’ story as an inspiration. How people mark the day differs; the custom is not a practice shared by every household or parish.[2]
What to expect for shopping
Austria’s Opening Hours Act says retail sales outlets must generally be closed on public holidays, subject to exceptions in the law. Since exceptions may apply, check a particular shop’s posted hours before making plans. Check opening hours with government offices and banks before you go; check directly with banks, museums and transport providers for their schedules.[3]
Easter Monday in Austria: FAQs
Is Easter Monday a public holiday in Austria?
Yes. The Arbeitsruhegesetz lists it as a holiday and provides employees with at least 24 consecutive hours of holiday rest, subject to permitted exceptions.[1]
When does Easter Monday fall?
It is the Monday after Easter Sunday. Easter is a movable Christian feast, so its calendar date changes from year to year.[2]
Are shops open on Easter Monday?
Retail sales outlets are generally required to close on public holidays, with statutory exceptions. Check the hours of the specific shop you plan to visit.[3]
Are public transport services running?
Check the relevant transport operator’s timetable for the route and date of your trip.[3]
Sources and references
Sources used for Easter Monday in Austria:
- Arbeitsruhegesetz § 7- Rechtsinformationssystem des Bundes, Republic of Austria
- Ostern- Archdiocese of Vienna
- Öffnungszeitengesetz 2003 § 3- Rechtsinformationssystem des Bundes, Republic of Austria