Why Easter Falls on March 31, 2024: Understanding the Date

Discover why Easter is celebrated on March 31, 2024, and learn about its calculation based on the lunar calendar.

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Easter is on March 31, 2024 because it follows a traditional calculation. Easter falls on the first Sunday after the first full moon that occurs on or after the vernal equinox. In 2024, the vernal equinox is on March 20, and the first full moon after this date is on March 25, making March 31 the first Sunday following the full moon.

FAQs & Answers

  1. What determines the date of Easter each year? Easter is determined by the first Sunday after the first full moon following the vernal equinox, a formula established by the Council of Nicaea in 325 AD.
  2. Why does the date of Easter change every year? Easter's date changes because it is based on the lunar calendar rather than the solar calendar, specifically relating to the Passover timing.
  3. What is the significance of the vernal equinox in determining Easter? The vernal equinox marks the beginning of spring and is crucial as it sets the time frame for calculating Easter's date, ensuring it never falls before March 21.
  4. When was Easter celebrated in the past? The date of Easter has varied significantly over the centuries, ranging from March 22 to April 25, with the current calculation introduced by early church councils.

Watch More

For more insights on holiday calendars and their significance, check out our content on other important festive dates and transitions.

  1. Discover the Date of Easter 2024: March 31st Celebration Easter 2024 falls on March 31st, marking a day of family gatherings and traditional celebrations.
  2. Why is Easter Not on April 13, 2025? Discover why Easter's date changes annually and why it won't be on April 13, 2025. Learn about the lunar calendar's role in determining Easter.