Easter lasts for 50 days, extending from Easter Sunday until the feast of Pentecost. Over the course of the season, we journey from the Resurrection to the moment when the Holy Spirit descended upon the Apostles and Mary. This means Easter culminates with the birth of the Catholic Church as Mary and the Apostles were sent out to begin the Church’s public ministry. This year Pentecost Sunday is May 24, 2026.

The first eight days of the Easter season are collectively titled the “Easter octave” and are celebrated as solemnities – the highest rank of feast days in the Church – making them extensions of the solemnity of Easter Sunday and a time of extra joy and celebration. The octave of Easter concludes with Divine Mercy Sunday, which occurs the Sunday after Easter, this year on April 12, 2026.

Celebrating Christ’s Resurrection is such a highly significant event that it is not limited to one day or even an octave in the life of the Church. As the General Norms for the Liturgical Year and Calendar states, “The fifty days from the Sunday of the Resurrection to Pentecost Sunday are celebrated in joy and exultation as one feast day, indeed as one ‘great Sunday.’"  

The Easter season is regarded as the most important liturgical season of the entire year because of the momentous occasion of Jesus’ victory over sin and death and the salvation that He brings to the world. It is truly the greatest act of love and redemption. This season is a beautiful opportunity to keep the joyful spirit of the Resurrection alive and to share the faith with others.

Christ is risen! He is risen indeed, Alleluia!

To find a parish near you to attend Mass, click here.