Good Friday 2025 – History, Significance, Celebrations, and Facts

Easter Sunday is right around the corner, but there’s another holiday right before Easter that’s widely recognized and celebrated all over the world. It’s Good Friday! Good Friday marks the day when Jesus Christ was crucified on the cross, and it’s an important day for Christians as they commemorate the Crucifixion of Jesus. While Easter gets the most attention from kids (they love Easter bunny and eggs, and everything associated with it), it is important that they learn about Good Friday too. The significance of Good Friday goes far beyond tradition—it’s a powerful reminder of sacrifice, faith, and love. If you’ve ever wondered about the Holy Friday meaning, it symbolizes the ultimate act of compassion and forgiveness. As Good Friday 2025 approaches, take this opportunity to reflect on its meaning with your children. From the history of Good Friday to customs and facts associated with it, here’s everything you need!

History of Good Friday

What is Good Friday, and why is it observed with such reverence? Good Friday holds deep meaning for Christians around the world, as it marks the day Jesus Christ suffered and was crucified to redeem humanity from sin. The Good Friday meaning lies in remembering his sacrifice, an act of unconditional love and forgiveness.

According to the Bible, Jesus was crucified on this day for claiming to be the Son of God and the King of the Jews—charges seen as blasphemous and punishable by death. The Roman governor Pontius Pilate, though hesitant, allowed the crucifixion under pressure from religious leaders and the crowd.

To understand the full Good Friday story, it’s important to revisit the events leading up to it. On the Wednesday before Good Friday, known as Holy Wednesday, Judas Iscariot—one of Jesus’ trusted disciples—agreed to betray him to the Jewish high priests in exchange for thirty pieces of silver.

The next day, Maundy Thursday, Jesus gathered with his disciples to celebrate the Jewish festival of Passover. This meal, later known as ‘The Last Supper’, was when Jesus revealed that one among them would betray him. Judas followed through, and Jesus was arrested that night.

On Good Friday, Jesus was brought before Pilate. Though Pilate found no fault in him, he handed him over to be judged under Jewish law. The priests accused Jesus of blasphemy, refusing to pay taxes to Caesar, and claiming to be a king. He was mocked with a crown of thorns, beaten, and crucified.

As per the Christian gospel, Jesus hung on the cross for six long hours. During his final three hours, darkness covered the land—even though it was afternoon—marking a powerful and solemn moment in Christian belief. This Good Friday history continues to be remembered with great devotion by millions each year.

The Significance of Good Friday

Good Friday is one of the most meaningful days in the Christian calendar. For those wondering what is the significance of Good Friday, it marks the day Jesus Christ was crucified—an act of great sacrifice and unconditional love. The Good Friday significance lies in the belief that Jesus gave His life to save humanity from sin, showing the true power of forgiveness and faith.

The significance of Good Friday and Easter is deeply connected. While Good Friday focuses on reflection, sacrifice, and prayer, Easter brings a message of hope and new beginnings through the resurrection of Jesus. Together, they remind believers of the strength of faith, the promise of salvation, and the importance of compassion.

Why Is Good Friday Called Good Friday?

The story behind Good Friday is not very cheerful, so many people wonder why do we call it Good Friday. After all, it is the day Jesus Christ was crucified. Some even ask why it’s not called something more sorrowful. But what’s so good about Good Friday is that it leads to hope. The day does not end with sadness—three days later, Jesus rose from the dead, which is celebrated as Easter or Resurrection Sunday. Easter is the celebration of His victory over death and the promise of new life.

Another reason why Good Friday is called ‘good’ is because it represents the fulfillment of God’s plan. Through Jesus’ suffering and death, people were saved from their sins. The day reminds believers of the deep love, sacrifice, and the gift of eternal salvation. That’s why, even though the events were painful, Good Friday is still considered a meaningful and hopeful day.

When Is Good Friday Celebrated?

Good Friday falls on the Friday before Easter Sunday each year. In 2025, it will be observed on April 18, just two days ahead of Easter Sunday on April 20.

How Is Good Friday Celebrated?

Christians around the world observe Good Friday as a day of prayer, reflection, and remembrance. It is a time to honour the ultimate sacrifice made by Jesus Christ. Why do we celebrate Good Friday? It is because this day marks the moment Jesus gave His life for the salvation of mankind, offering hope, forgiveness, and the promise of eternal life. Many attend special church services, some lasting for three hours to represent the time Jesus spent on the cross. Good Friday services often include the reading of the ‘Passion’—the story of Jesus’ crucifixion—along with hymns and silent prayers. In some churches, the Veneration of the Cross takes place, where people bow or kneel before the cross to show reverence.

Apart from attending church, there are other meaningful ways to celebrate Good Friday that reflect its solemn nature and spiritual significance. These personal and family observances form a heartfelt part of the Good Friday celebration:

• Spending time in silent prayer: Many set aside quiet moments to reflect on Jesus’ sacrifice and strengthen their faith.
• Fasting or skipping a meal: As part of the traditions of Good Friday, fasting is commonly practiced as a symbol of devotion.
• Reading the Bible or meditative scriptures: Reflecting on Christ’s final hours helps deepen spiritual understanding.
• Watching faith-based movies: Families often watch films or documentaries that portray the life and teachings of Jesus.
• Doing acts of kindness or service: Extending help to others or performing a kind act honours the message Jesus left behind.

Good Friday Celebrations & Traditions Around the World

Good Friday is observed across the world through a variety of religious and cultural customs that reflect both faith and reverence. While the significance of the day remains the same, the way it is marked differs from one region to another, highlighting the depth and diversity of Christian traditions globally.

In Spain, processions are a major part of the day. People wear long robes, often with hoods, and walk silently through the streets while carrying large wooden crosses. This act symbolises repentance and sorrow. In Belgium and Mexico, churches are draped in black cloth to create an atmosphere of mourning and reflection. In the United Kingdom, it’s common to see groups carrying wooden crosses through towns or near churches as a public remembrance of Jesus’ crucifixion.

Germany observes Good Friday in a more reserved manner, calling it ‘Sorrowful Friday.’ On this day, dancing and public celebrations are restricted as a sign of respect. Bermuda has a unique tradition where people fly handmade kites, which are symbolic of Christ’s ascension. In countries like Italy, the Philippines, and Spain, dramatic re-enactments and processions help communities reflect on the events that took place on this sacred day.

Fasting, church services, silent prayers, and participation in these customs are all part of Good Friday traditions around the world, allowing people to honour the sacrifice of Jesus Christ in ways that are meaningful to their culture and community.

Interesting Good Friday Facts

Looking for a fun fact about Good Friday? Here are some interesting Good Friday facts that reflect the day’s history, spiritual value, and global traditions. From unique customs to deep-rooted beliefs, Good Friday continues to be observed in meaningful ways across the world.

• Good Friday is not an official holiday in many countries, including the US. While some schools and banks close, it is officially recognised as a public holiday in only 12 U.S. states.
• Good Friday can fall between March 20 and April 23, depending on the lunar calendar. In 2025, it will be observed on April 18.
• Hot cross buns are considered symbols of good luck. It is believed that buns baked on Good Friday never spoil and can protect homes from fire.
• In Ireland, eggs laid on Good Friday are believed to never rot. Traditionally, families mark them with a holy cross and eat them on Easter Sunday for good health and blessings throughout the year.
• Good Friday is known by different names in various parts of the world, such as Holy Friday, Great Friday, Silent Friday, and Easter Friday.
• The first Good Friday is believed to have been observed on April 3, A.D. 33, based on astronomical and historical calculations.
• The Thursday before Good Friday is called Maundy Thursday, and the Saturday after is known as Holy Saturday, completing the Holy Week.
• In Germany, dancing is strictly prohibited on Good Friday as a sign of respect and mourning.
• According to an old superstition, getting a haircut on Good Friday is said to prevent headaches for the rest of the year.
• In many churches, bells are rung exactly 33 times to represent the 33 years Jesus lived before his crucifixion.
• In some countries like Germany, dancing and public entertainment are strictly prohibited on Good Friday to maintain the day’s solemn atmosphere.
• The tradition of eating hot cross buns on Good Friday dates back to the 12th century. It’s believed that a monk first marked buns with a cross to honour the crucifixion of Jesus.
• The Church of England and many Protestant denominations do not celebrate Mass on Good Friday. Instead, they hold prayer services, scripture readings, and silent reflection without Eucharist.
• The term “Good Friday” is believed to have originated from the word “God’s Friday” or “Holy Friday” in old English, which evolved into “Good Friday” over time.
• In many parts of the world, church bells are not rung from Good Friday until Easter Sunday as a sign of mourning for Jesus’ death.

Good Friday Activities for Kids

Here are some thoughtful Good Friday activities for kids and families that you can try at home. These simple ideas can help children understand the importance of Good Friday in a meaningful way, while spending quality time together as a family.

1. Read Books

Get age-appropriate children’s books on Good Friday or Easter for your child and read them to him. In order to teach your child about Good Friday in a kid-friendly way, get a picture book which leads up to the story of Easter too. A book on Easter with beautiful illustrations in it is sure to interest your child. Colourful illustrations will keep him enthralled and he will be more than eager to learn about the two holidays!

2. Plant a Sapling

While telling your child about the story of Good Friday, you can also engage him in an activity like planting or gardening. Your child may feel anxious while listening to you talk about Jesus’ death – ease his anxiety by engaging him in an activity that symbolizes life. Planting a seed on Good Friday is a symbol of Jesus’ resurrection and the miracle of life. Explain this to your kid by helping him plant a seed or sapling in a pot or your backyard or terrace garden. Let him water it daily and watch it grow into a beautiful plant/tree.

3. Get Your Child to Cook a Good Friday Meal With You

In many countries, people abstain from eating meat on Good Friday. If you follow this custom too, you can make a scrumptious vegetarian meal on this day. And while you’re at it, ask your child to help you with dinner preparations. It’s a wonderful way to get him to cook healthy and tasty vegetarian meals. Plan the meal together and take his opinions so that he feels involved. You can ask him to make a salad or something simple that does not involve cooking with fire!

4. Other Activities

Some other activities that you can keep your child engaged in on this day include art and craft activities, flying kites, and more. You can download colouring pages with crosses, flowering vines and bread on them, and other pictures associated with Good Friday, and let your child colour them. You can also bake hot cross buns, a traditional Good Friday food, with your child. These sweet buns marked with a cross are a symbol of the day and offer a great way to bond while teaching your child about its significance.

5. Make a Cross Craft Together

Help your child make a simple cross using paper, popsicle sticks, twigs, or cardboard. As you create the craft, talk to your child about the meaning of the cross and its importance on Good Friday. You can decorate the cross with flowers, colours, or messages of kindness, turning it into a thoughtful piece of art that reflects the spirit of the day.

6. Kindness Jar Activity

Place a small jar or container in your home and label it “Kindness Jar.” Ask your child to write or draw one kind thing they did during the day on a small slip of paper and drop it in the jar. This activity encourages them to think about helping others—just as Jesus did—and promotes a habit of compassion and goodness that reflects the true message of Good Friday.

Good Friday Meal Ideas

Here are some yummy Good Friday recipes that you can try at home for your kids and family members! These simple and delicious Good Friday meals are perfect for a day that’s all about togetherness, reflection, and wholesome food.

1. Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon

Salmon forms a major part of Good Friday dinner. If you’re planning to make fish, try this honey garlic glazed salmon. The combination of honey and garlic will impart a distinct flavour to this dish and without a doubt, your child will relish it!

Ingredients

• Salmon fillets – 200gms (4-6oz), patted dry with a paper towel
• Extra virgin olive oil – 3 tbsp
• Honey – 2 tsp
• Soy sauce – 1.5 tsp
• Lemon juice – 2 tbsp
• Red pepper flakes – 1 tbsp
• Kosher salt – as per taste
• Ground black pepper – 2 tsp
• Lemon, sliced – 1
• Minced garlic cloves – 3

Recipe 

1. In a medium-sized bowl, take some honey, soy sauce, lemon juice and red flakes, and mix well.
2. Heat two teaspoons of oil in a pan or a skillet on medium flame.
3. Place the salmon, skin-side up in the pan. Top it with salt and pepper. Cook the salmon in the pan until it turns golden.
4. Once it turns golden from one side, flip and repeat the above step and add 1 tbsp of oil, and allow it to cook.
5. Add minced garlic and cook for about 1-2 minutes.
6. Next, add in the honey and soy sauce mixture and sliced lemons. Cook until the sauce is evaporated by 1/3. Keep on pouring the sauce.
7. Once it is cooked properly, transfer it to a dish, place some sliced lemons on top and serve warm!

2. Asparagus and Pea Risotto

Asparagus and pea risotto is a healthy and filling dish that will be enjoyed by your family at dinner. Here’s a simple recipe of the same. Give it a try and let us know how it turned out for you!

Ingredients

• Rice – 1 cup
• Chicken stock – 5 cups
• Asparagus spears (cut into thirds) – 5
• Chopped garlic – 2 tbsp
• Peas – 1 cup
• Parmesan cheese – ½ cup
• Butter – 1 tbsp
• Pepper to taste
• Salt to taste

Recipe

1. Heat some oil in a pan and place the asparagus spears in it. Add in the chopped garlic and mix well.
2. Cook until the asparagus turns soft.
3. Add in the rice and cook it for 2-3 minutes.
4. Add 1 cup of chicken stock and mix until the stock is absorbed.
5. Once the chicken stock is completely absorbed, add another cup of chicken stock. Repeat this step until you have added all five cups of stock.
6. Add in the peas and stir well. The rice should be cooked well by now.
7. Next, add the Parmesan cheese and butter and stir again.
8. Garnish with pepper and serve hot.

3. Hot Cross Buns

 It’s a tradition to make (and eat) hot cross buns on Good Friday. If you were planning to skip it this time, don’t – it’s the tradition, after all! If you don’t know how to make hot cross buns, quickly learn how to make them. It’s not that hard!

Ingredients

For the Buns

• Whole milk – 1 cup
• Granulated sugar – 1/2 cup
• Melted butter – 1/3 cup
• Dry yeast – 2 packets or 4-5 tsp
• Egg yolk – 1
• Vanilla extract – 1 tsp
• Kosher salt – 1 tsp
• Ground cinnamon – 1/2 tsp
• Ground nutmeg – 1/2 tsp
• Dried currants – 1/2 cup
• Egg wash for brushing

For Glazing

• Powdered sugar – 2 cup
• Milk – 2 tbsp
• Lemon zest – 1/2 tsp

Recipe

1. In a medium bowl, combine milk, yeast, and a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for about 20 minutes or until it turns foamy.
2. Whisk in the butter, egg yolk, and vanilla essence into the above mixture.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, remaining sugar, salt, cinnamon powder, and nutmeg powder. Make a well in this mixture and pour in the yeast mixture, stirring it well such that you get a thick dough. Add in the currants and stir again.
4. On a large chopping board, sprinkle some flour and knead the dough on it until it turns soft and elastic.
5. Grease a large bowl and place the dough in it. Cover it with a plastic wrap and let it rise at room temperature. It should double in size in 1-2 hours.
6. Grease a baking pan or tray with butter.
7. Transfer the dough on to a floured chopping board and shape it into a rectangle. Divide the dough into equal portions using a sharp knife.
8. Shape them into rolls tucking the edges under, such that they look like buns.
9. Place them in the baking pan or tray and cover with a plastic wrap and keep aside for an hour. The buns should double in size.
10. Preheat an oven to 375°F and brush the top of buns with egg wash.
11. Bake for about 25 minutes or until they turn golden and puffy.
12. For glazing, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and lemon zest until smooth.
13. Transfer it to a piping bag and pipe a thick cross shape on hot buns.
14. Serve warm.

FAQs

1. Is Good Friday a public holiday everywhere?

No, Good Friday is not a public holiday in all countries. It is officially observed in many Christian-majority nations like the UK, Canada, and Australia, while in others like the U.S., it is only recognized in certain states.

2. What is the connection between Good Friday and Easter?

Good Friday marks the crucifixion and death of Jesus Christ, a day of reflection and mourning in the Christian faith. Easter Sunday, which follows two days later, celebrates His resurrection and victory over death. The two are deeply connected—Good Friday represents sacrifice and sorrow, while Easter brings hope and joy through the promise of new life. Easter also symbolises renewal, forgiveness, and the fulfilment of God’s promise, making it the most joyful celebration in the Christian calendar.

3. What are the main symbols of Good Friday?

The most important symbol of Good Friday is the crucifix, representing Jesus Christ’s death on the cross. Churches often cover crosses and statues with black cloth to reflect mourning. Some places also remove flowers and decorations to keep the space simple and solemn.

With this Good Friday information for kids, your little one is sure to learn the importance of this day. He may not remember it all, but that’s alright! For now, you can involve him in several Good Friday activities like colouring, planting, and cooking. He will enjoy them, and these activities may even help him remember this information by next Good Friday. Happy celebrating!

Also Read:

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Beautiful Easter Stories for Kids
Popular Easter Songs for Children
Easter Quotes, Wishes and Messages for Family and Friends