Holy Week, known in Spanish as Semana Santa, is one of the most important religious observances in the Christian calendar, remembered through acts that commemorate the passion, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Initially referred to as Gran Semana, it has come to be known as Holy Week, and its days are considered hallowed. In 2026, Holy Week begins on Sunday, March 29, and concludes on Sunday, April 5.

During Holy Week, believers attend mass and participate in various celebrations held in their parishes, including the prayer of the Stations of the Cross (vía crucis). The significance of this week extends beyond merely spiritual observance; it also includes cultural traditions that are deeply rooted in the communities throughout Ecuador. These practices highlight the interconnection between faith and daily life, especially in predominantly Christian regions.

The fifth public holiday of the year, Good Friday, falls on April 3, 2026, and is one of the most significant holidays in Ecuador due to its religious and economic implications for citizens. This day, along with Saturday, April 4, and Sunday, April 5, forms a long weekend that many Ecuadorians use for religious observance, family gatherings, or tourism, underscoring the holiday's importance to both personal and communal life in Ecuador.