Written by student reporter, Jonny Ratner

Holy Week consists of many major events throughout the days leading up to Easter Sunday that each hold unique and specific meaning. The first of these celebrations is Palm Sunday, which, according to TIME, is the “earliest known record of any Holy Week observance.” It is a day that is used  to recognize when Jesus first arrived in Jerusalem, and a way to celebrate that day.

Later in the week on Thursday is known as Holy or Maundy Thursday. This day is used for Christians and those observing Easter to look back to the last supper and take part in many events that go on during this day, including the distribution of blessed oils and a “foot-washing ceremony.” Following that is Good Friday, which was first observed and practiced in the 15th century, which recognized the path that Jesus took after he was condemned, leading to his crucifixion and his eventual burial. Those who don’t physically walk the path traditionally participate in other events in Church.

The last day that is specifically recognized before Easter is Holy Saturday, which is used to remember the ceremony held for Jesus by his followers after his burial. “Back in the second century CE, Christians fasted between nightfall on Good Friday and dawn on Easter Sunday, in the spirit of the first followers,” according to TIME.

Finally, Easter commemorates the resurrection of Jesus and is often celebrated with a mass and activities of reflection in the faith community.

Easter also coincides with the beginning of spring, and many celebrate with symbols of spring and new life, like eggs and rabbits. Here’s a different look at the celebration of Spring that predates Jesus, which says, in part, “…the Spring festival honored the goddess Eostre or Eastre. The name is pronounced Easter. She was the ancient Anglo Saxon goddess of the dawn and the Vernal Equinox.”

In 2024, the vernal equinox is on March 19, Palm Sunday is on March 24, and Easter is on March 31. Orthodox Easter, which is celebrated according to the Julian calendar, falls on May 5 this year.

Recommended Watching and Reading for Holy Week/Easter

This list will grow as community members contribute. Send recommendations to hello@burlington.buzz.

• Book Riot has a list of important books to read to learn about both Easter and Holy Week as a whole.
• Christ Fellowship Church also provides a list of items to choose from to read or watch.

Learn More About Holy Week/Easter

• Learn Religions has a clear and concise timeline of Holy Week events leading up to Easter Sunday
• The Catholic News Agency has an introduction to holy week, to offer more knowledge and insight into the sacred week
• Christianity.com offers a more in-detail approach to describing the events leading up to Easter Sunday
• Faith Gateway has many unique and fun activities for children and families to try
• Read Brightly also compiled a list of fun activities for you and a your family to do
• Children's Ministry has a list of activities that carry more meaning and can help you give back to your community

Local Holy Week/Easter Happenings

Below are just a few events happening nearby to celebrate Holy Week in 2024. Let us know if you have one you’d like to add!

• March 24, 12:00 PM - Processional from St. Mark’s Church to United Church of Christ, Congregational (Burlington)
• March 24, 12:00-3:00 PM - Free Photos with Easter Bunny - Get your picture, listen to live music, enjoy face painting and giveaways. (3rd Ave: Osteria Nino)
• March 30 - Free Family Easter Event (4 Oak Street, Wakefield)

Jonny Ratner is a student at Endicott College studying journalism.

How do you observe Holy Week? What resources would help your neighbors and their children and grandchildren learn more about this holiday? Share your stories with us by emailing hello@burlington.buzz, and your story could be added to this feature!

What are you celebrating or observing? Let us know at hello@burlington.buzz!