While Christians around the globe mark Good Friday with solemnity and reverence, for most Belgians, April 18 will be just another working day. Despite its deep religious significance, the day is not an official public holiday in Belgium — a contrast to several other predominantly Catholic nations.
Good Friday commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and is one of the most sacred observances in the Christian calendar.
Falling during Holy Week and part of the Paschal Triduum — which includes Maundy Thursday and Holy Saturday — the date of Good Friday changes annually, following the lunar-based Easter calendar. This year, it falls on April 18.
Belgium officially recognizes ten public holidays, six of which have religious roots. Among these are Easter Monday, Ascension Day, Whit Monday, and Assumption Day — all widely observed with a day off work. However, the Friday before Easter remains a regular business day for most of the country.
In contrast, countries like Spain observe both Maundy Thursday and Good Friday as public holidays but do not celebrate Easter Monday.
Belgium’s choice to forgo Good Friday as a public holiday has long puzzled those unfamiliar with its traditions. Yet the explanation lies partly in the nation’s secular approach to certain religious events, despite its historical Catholic roots.
On Good Friday, most public and private services, including schools and government institutions, remain operational. One notable exception is the banking sector.
Banks across Belgium will be closed on April 18, not due to religious observance but because of a practical scheduling shift — they substitute this day for All Saints’ Day (November 1), which falls on a Saturday this year.
Although there are no nationwide customs tied specifically to Good Friday in Belgium, many churches across the country will offer special services to commemorate the day.
These services typically include readings of the Passion narrative, reflections on Christ’s suffering, and periods of silence and prayer. Among older Belgians and more devout Christians, personal traditions endure.
Some choose to fast during the morning hours and observe the day with a simple meal, often centered around fish, in keeping with longstanding Christian fasting traditions.
Historically, Good Friday’s name has generated curiosity and debate. While the event it commemorates — the crucifixion of Christ — is profoundly tragic, the term “Good” is believed to refer to the day’s sanctity and holiness.
Contrary to popular belief, the name is not a distortion of “God Friday.” In Old English, the day was known as “Long Friday,” referencing the lengthy religious services and fasting associated with the observance.
In some countries, legal restrictions still reflect the day’s somber character. For example, in Germany, laws prohibit public dancing and horse racing on Good Friday to maintain a respectful atmosphere.
Though Good Friday passes quietly for many in Belgium, its significance remains undiminished for those who mark the day with devotion and reflection.
As the world pauses to remember one of Christianity’s most pivotal moments, Belgium quietly carries on — a blend of tradition, secularism, and subdued spirituality.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
