When Was Easter 2013?

February 13 - Ash Wednesday
March 24 - Palm Sunday
March 28 - Maundy (Holy) Thursday
March 29 - Good Friday
March 31 - Easter Sunday (Western Christianity - Roman Catholic, Anglican Communion, Protestant Churches, etc.)
May 5 - Easter Sunday (Orthodox Christianity - Eastern Orthodox Churches)

In Western Christianity, Easter is always celebrated on the Sunday immediately following the Paschal Full Moon. I had previously, and somewhat erroneously stated, "Easter is always celebrated on the Sunday immediately following the first full moon after the vernal (spring) equinox." This statement was true in 325 AD, when it was established by the Council of Nicea.

However, the course of history has modified the meaning of this instruction, and therefore, a clearer, more accurate explanation is necessary today.

There are, in fact, as many misunderstandings about the calculation of Easter dates, as there are reasons for confusion about Easter dates. To clear up at least some of the confusion visit:
• Why Do the Dates for Easter Change Every Year?
• Why do Eastern and Western Churches Celebrate Easter on Different Days?

Easter 2012 Dates

February 22 - Ash Wednesday
April 1 - Palm Sunday
April 5 - Maundy (Holy) Thursday
April 6 - Good Friday
April 8 - Easter Sunday (Western Christianity - Roman Catholic, Anglican Communion, Protestant Churches, etc.)
April 15 - Easter Sunday (Orthodox Christianity - Eastern Orthodox Churches)