Easter Monday in Sweden
Easter Monday, known in Swedish as Annandag påsk, is a public holiday set by law. It falls on the day after Easter Sunday, and in the Church of Sweden’s Easter story it recalls Jesus appearing to his disciples after the resurrection.[1][2]
A public holiday with a moveable date
Sweden’s Public Holidays Act names Annandag påsk as an allmän helgdag, or public holiday. The same law defines Easter Sunday by reference to the first full moon on or after 21 March, then sets Easter Monday as the following day. Its date therefore changes each year, but the holiday itself is always the Monday after Easter Sunday.[1]
The law gives Easter Monday public-holiday status, but the provisions defining the day do not set each person’s work schedule or require every business to close. Whether you work depends on your job and arrangements with your employer. There is no separate substitute date in the Act: it defines the holiday as the day immediately after Easter Sunday.[1]
The day’s place in Easter
The Church of Sweden describes Easter as its most important feast, celebrating Jesus’ resurrection after his crucifixion. In its account, Easter Monday is the day when Jesus appears to his disciples; their responses include doubt and a desire for proof. The story links the day to the resurrection message that Jesus remains with them in their everyday lives.[2]
Easter Monday sits at the end of the period commonly called Easter in Sweden, which runs from Maundy Thursday through Annandag påsk. Easter Sunday is the day that begins the church’s Easter week, according to the Church of Sweden. This gives Monday a distinct place in the religious calendar even though it follows the central celebration of the resurrection.[2]
Services and practical planning
Church services and other activities are organized by local congregations, and the Church of Sweden directs people to its congregation finder and calendar for local details. Check the congregation’s listing if you want to attend a service, since the national holiday law does not specify religious events.[1][2]
For errands or travel, check the specific shop, office, bank or transport operator before setting out. The law establishes the date and status of the public holiday; it does not provide a nationwide opening schedule.[1]
Easter Monday in Sweden: FAQ
Is Easter Monday a public holiday in Sweden?
Yes. The Public Holidays Act lists Annandag påsk as an allmän helgdag, or public holiday.[1]
When does Easter Monday fall?
It is the day after Easter Sunday, so it always falls on a Monday. Easter Sunday’s date changes from year to year under the rule in the Public Holidays Act.[1]
Does everyone have the day off work?
The law establishes Easter Monday as a public holiday but does not set every worker’s schedule. Check your work roster or employment arrangements.[1]
Are shops, banks and public transport open?
The Act does not set a nationwide opening or transport schedule. Check the hours and service timetable of the specific business or operator you plan to use.[1]
Are there church services on Easter Monday?
The Church of Sweden lists Easter Monday as part of Easter and offers a calendar to find local services and activities. Check your local congregation for details.[2]
Sources and references
Sources used for Easter Monday in Sweden:
- Lag (1989:253) om allmänna helgdagar- Sveriges riksdag
- Påsk- Svenska kyrkan