Easter 2026: Everything You Need to Know About Dates, Traditions, and the Cutest Easter Outfits for Kids
Easter 2026 is just around the corner, and like every year, there are two dates to keep in mind. For half of Europe, the holiday comes a week earlier than for the other half. Don't worry โ 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
This year, Catholic Easter falls on April 5, 2026. One week later, on April 12, 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 one-to-five-week difference. In 2026, it's exactly seven days.
So if you have Orthodox neighbors or friends, mark April 12 on your calendar. And for Catholic traditions: April 5 is the day the Easter Bunny really makes his rounds 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 see that light blue oversized Easter bunny T-shirt popping up everywhere. Comfortable, cheerful, and perfect for hunting eggs in the backyard. My four-year-old niece already refuses to wear much else. And honestly, I get it.
For the actual holidays โ or if Carnival happens to fall during Easter break โ you could also go for a tutu dress with bunny ears. That mix of carnival costume and Easter fun works great with preschoolers. Think: a pink tutu, a white bunny mask, and a little basket of eggs. Ready for the neighborhood parade.
Here's something I'm doing too: a dress-up game around the Easter theme. The kids dress up as the Easter Bunny, a chick, or a lamb. Not only is it great for photos, but it's also a fun, educational way to teach them about traditions. And honestly, the smiles on their faces are priceless.
- Oversized Easter bunny T-shirt (light blue) โ perfect for the whole Easter week
- Tutu dress with bunny theme โ great for parties and Carnival
- Animal cosplay set โ bunny, chick, or lamb
- Dress-up accessories โ 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 April 5 for the Catholic tradition. The processions start on Palm Sunday (March 29) and run all the way through Easter Sunday.
What you shouldn't miss: the silent procession on Holy Thursday and the impressive pasos โ giant floating scenes with figures from the Passion story. Benidorm holds its own against big cities like Seville. The difference is that here, you can also grab a beer on the beach afterward.
My advice: book a hotel near the old town (casco antiguo) in advance. The processions wind through narrow streets, and you'll want to be close without being stuck in the crowd. Bring comfortable shoes โ 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.
One more thing about those New Year's cards for 2026
Okay, this might be a little early, but I've already seen them in stores: New Year's cards for 2026. Some shops are starting to stock them now, and honestly, it's not a bad idea to buy them during the Easter rush. That way, you're all set by December. Or just send them for Easter โ why not? An Easter bunny wishing you a "Happy New Year" is pretty hilarious.
In short: Easter 2026 is shaping up to be a nice mix of traditions, dates to watch, and most of all, lots of fun with the kids. Whether you go for an oversized bunny shirt, a procession in Benidorm, or just a quiet egg dip at home โ wishing you a wonderful Easter week.