Easter 2026: Everything about dates, traditions and the cutest Easter outfits for kids
Easter 2026 is just around the corner, and as every year, there are two dates to keep in mind. For half of Europe, the celebration falls a week earlier than for the other half. Don't worry – I'll explain exactly how it works, and why you might end up dyeing eggs twice this year.
When is Easter 2026? The difference between Catholic and Orthodox dates
This year, Catholic Easter falls on 5 April 2026. One week later, on 12 April 2026, Orthodox Christians celebrate their Easter. That's because the Orthodox Church still follows the Julian calendar to calculate Easter, while Catholics use the Gregorian calendar. In the past they often coincided, but nowadays there's usually a difference of one to five weeks. In 2026, it's exactly seven days.
So if you have Orthodox neighbours or friends, mark 12 April in your calendar. And for Catholic traditions: 5 April is the day the Easter Bunny really comes visiting in large parts of the Netherlands and Belgium.
The cutest Easter outfits for kids: oversized bunnies and tutus
Let me be honest: nothing is cuter than a kid in Easter bunny style. This year I keep seeing that oversized light-blue T-shirt with an Easter bunny everywhere. Comfortable, cheerful, and perfect for hunting eggs in the backyard. My four-year-old niece almost refuses to wear anything else. And I totally get her.
For the actual holidays – or if Carnival happens to fall in the Easter break – you could also think about a tutu dress with bunny ears. That combo of carnival costume and Easter fun works brilliantly with preschoolers. Picture this: a pink tutu, a white bunny mask, and a basket of eggs. Ready for the neighbourhood parade.
What I'm doing myself: a dress-up game around the Easter theme. The kids dress up as the Easter Bunny, a chick or a little lamb. Not only is it fun for photos, it's also an educational way to teach them about traditions. And honestly, that smile on their face is priceless.
- Oversized Easter bunny T-shirt (light blue) – ideal for the whole Easter week
- Tutu dress with bunny theme – perfect for parties and Carnival
- Animal cosplay set – bunny, chick or lamb
- Dress-up accessories – ears, tails and face paint
Semana Santa in Benidorm 2026: what tourists need to know
If you're planning to go to Spain for Easter, here's a tip: Benidorm during Semana Santa (Holy Week) is an experience in itself. In 2026, that week naturally falls around 5 April for the Catholic tradition. The processions start as early as Palm Sunday (29 March) and continue through to Easter Sunday.
What you shouldn't miss: the silent procession on Maundy Thursday and the impressive pasos – enormous floating scenes with figures from the Passion story. Benidorm certainly holds its own against big cities like Seville. The difference is that here you can also grab a beer on the beach afterwards.
My advice: book a hotel near the old town (casco antiguo) in advance. The processions wind through the narrow streets, and you want to be close without being stuck in the crowd. Also bring comfortable shoes – you'll be standing and walking a lot. And don't forget your camera, because the evening processions with thousands of candles are truly magical.
And a quick word about those 2026 New Year's cards
Okay, this might be a little early, but I've already spotted them: 2026 New Year's cards. Some shops are starting to sell them now, and honestly, it's not a bad idea to buy them in the Easter rush. That way you're at least ready by December. Or you could send them at Easter – why not? An Easter Bunny saying 'Happy New Year' is pretty hilarious, right?
In short: Easter 2026 will be a lovely mix of traditions, dates to watch, and above all, plenty of fun with the kids. Whether you choose an oversized bunny shirt, a procession in Benidorm, or just a quiet egg dip at home – I wish you a wonderful Easter week.