Good Friday in Bermuda
Good Friday is a public holiday in Bermuda, listed under the Public Holidays Act 1947. Its Christian observance sits alongside Bermudian customs of kite flying, sharing fish cakes and hot cross buns, and gathering with family and friends.[1][2]
A public holiday with Christian meaning
Bermuda’s Public Holidays Act 1947 sets its public-holiday calendar. Good Friday is included in that calendar, and the next following weekday is observed when a public holiday falls on a Saturday or Sunday. Good Friday itself falls on a Friday, so the weekend substitution rule does not generally affect it.[1]
Good Friday marks an important observance in the Christian calendar. The day has customary significance for Christians, and community traditions have grown around it in Bermuda.[2]
Kites, fish cakes and hot cross buns
Kite flying is one of the customs most associated with Good Friday in Bermuda. Kite flying, hot cross buns and fish cakes are familiar traditions, often shared with friends and family.[2]
Residents gather at community events and activities across Bermuda, with kite flying and hot cross buns among the day’s hallmarks.[3]
What to expect on the holiday
Shops are generally required by law to close on Good Friday, though the responsible minister can authorize exceptions. Opening arrangements can differ, so check directly with shops and other businesses before relying on them.[4]
Public-holiday arrangements can also affect services such as scheduled collections: Government advisories have shifted household waste collection when the usual collection day falls on Good Friday. Check current notices from service providers and the Government when planning errands or travel.[1]
Good Friday in Bermuda: frequently asked questions
Is Good Friday a public holiday in Bermuda?
Yes. It appears on Bermuda’s official public-holiday calendar under the Public Holidays Act 1947.[1]
What are common Bermudian Good Friday traditions?
Are shops open on Good Friday?
The Government says shops are generally required by law to close, though exceptions may be authorized. Check with individual businesses for their hours.[4]
Does Bermuda give a substitute day when Good Friday falls on a weekend?
The Act provides for the next following weekday to be observed when a public holiday falls on a Saturday or Sunday. Good Friday falls on a Friday, so that rule does not generally apply to it.[1]
Sources and references
Sources used for Good Friday in Bermuda:
- Public Holidays- Government of Bermuda
- Minister of National Security: Holiday Weekend- Government of Bermuda
- Premier and Family Celebrate Good Friday- Government of Bermuda
- 6 April COVID-19 Update- Government of Bermuda