Easter, one of the most significant religious dates in the Christian calendar, commemorates the passion, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Originally referred to as the 'Great Week', it is now commonly called Holy Week or Semana Santa, and its days are marked as sacred. In 2026, Holy Week will start on Sunday, March 29, and conclude on Sunday, April 5. During Holy Week, believers across Ecuador attend mass and engage in various celebrations within their parishes, including the traditional Stations of the Cross. These observances reflect the deep religious significance of this period for many Christians. The observance of Easter not only serves a spiritual purpose but also has social and cultural implications for communities throughout the country. Good Friday, a critical holiday within this period, will fall on April 3, 2026, making it the fifth holiday of the year. This day is of great importance in Ecuador for its religious significance and the economic activities that revolve around it, as many citizens participate in festivities and family gatherings throughout the extended weekend, which also includes Saturday, April 4, and Sunday, April 5.