Sharing is caring!

Easter 2025 falls on Sunday, April 20, providing Californians with a perfect opportunity to celebrate the spring holiday. This date is determined by the first Sunday following the first full moon after the spring equinox, which occurs on March 20, 2025. Easter represents a significant religious observance for Christians who celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

California offers numerous ways to enjoy this springtime celebration with family-friendly activities across the state. In Los Angeles, families can participate in Easter egg hunts at Descanso Gardens or The Los Angeles Zoo, both of which host special Easter events with activities designed for children. The pleasant spring weather in California typically creates ideal conditions for outdoor celebrations.

For those planning ahead, it's worth noting that Easter 2025 coincides with the final day of Passover, which begins before sunset on April 19 and ends after nightfall on April 20. This timing creates an opportunity for cultural appreciation and diverse celebrations throughout the Golden State.

When is Easter 2025 – Easter Celebrations in California: Key Dates and Events

Easter 2025 Date

Easter Sunday in 2025 will fall on April 20th, a date determined through established ecclesiastical calculations based on lunar cycles and the spring equinox.

Calculation of Easter Sunday

Easter Sunday is always celebrated on the first Sunday after the first full moon that occurs on or after the spring equinox. This calculation method was established at the Council of Nicaea in 325 CE to standardize the celebration date across Christianity.

For 2025, the spring equinox falls on March 20th, with the following full moon occurring on April 19th. Since April 19th is a Saturday, Easter will be celebrated on Sunday, April 20th.

Both Catholic and Orthodox Christians will celebrate Easter on the same date in 2025, creating a unified observance of this significant religious holiday.

Historical Variance in Date

Easter's date can vary significantly from year to year, with the earliest possible date being March 22nd and the latest possible date being April 25th. This creates a potential five-week window for Easter celebrations.

The 2025 Easter date of April 20th falls toward the later end of this possible range. This variation affects the timing of the entire liturgical calendar, including Ash Wednesday which will be on March 5th.

Easter's date calculation remains one of the most complex aspects of the Christian calendar. The lunar-based calculation means that Easter Sunday in consecutive years can vary by more than a month, as seen in various historical celebrations.

Easter Traditions in California

California offers a diverse array of Easter celebrations that blend traditional religious observances with unique coastal and cultural influences. Families throughout the state participate in festive activities that reflect California's multicultural heritage and beautiful outdoor settings.

Egg Hunts and Easter Baskets

Californians embrace egg hunts with distinctive west coast flair. The annual Easter event at Santa Monica Pier transforms the iconic beachfront into a festive hunting ground where children search for colorful eggs against the backdrop of crashing waves and carnival rides.

In San Diego, Balboa Park hosts elaborate egg hunts featuring thousands of eggs scattered across its manicured gardens. Many communities incorporate eco-friendly practices with biodegradable eggs or alternatives to plastic filling materials.

Easter baskets in California often contain regional specialties alongside traditional treats. Artisanal chocolates from local chocolatiers, California-grown strawberries, and small toys with beach or Hollywood themes are popular additions. Many families purchase handcrafted baskets from local artisans at farmers' markets across the state.

Church Services

Religious observances remain central to Easter celebrations throughout California. The Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels in Los Angeles draws thousands for its ornate Easter Mass, featuring professional choirs and elaborate floral displays.

Mission churches along El Camino Real hold special historical significance during Easter. These centuries-old structures offer services that blend traditional Catholic rituals with elements of indigenous and Hispanic traditions that shaped California's early history.

Sunrise services gain special significance on California's east-facing beaches. Congregations gather before dawn along coastal communities from Huntington Beach to Monterey, celebrating resurrection as the sun emerges over the horizon. These services often attract both devout believers and those seeking a spiritual connection with nature.

Easter Parades

The Easter parade tradition thrives in California with notable celebrations in several cities. San Francisco's Union Street Easter Parade features elaborately decorated vintage cars, creative bonnets, and family-friendly entertainment that reflects the city's artistic spirit.

Los Angeles neighborhoods host community parades where local schools, businesses and families participate in showcasing creative floats and costumes. These events typically culminate in community gatherings with food vendors offering multicultural Easter specialties.

Smaller communities like Solvang incorporate their Danish heritage into Easter processions, while Palm Springs' parade features desert-appropriate themes with convertibles and golf carts decked in spring decorations. Many parades conclude with community egg hunts in local parks where families gather for picnics featuring California's seasonal produce.

Family Celebrations

Easter in California brings families together through meaningful traditions that create lasting memories. These gatherings often center around special meals and activities that reflect both cultural heritage and contemporary celebrations.

Easter Meals

Traditional Easter brunches are incredibly popular across California, with many families preparing special menus featuring baked ham, deviled eggs, and spring vegetables. Some families incorporate cultural specialties like Italian Easter bread or Mexican pan de Pascua.

Los Angeles offers numerous options for families who prefer dining out, with special Easter brunches at hotels and restaurants throughout the city. Reservations are highly recommended as these venues typically fill up weeks in advance.

Farm-to-table Easter meals have gained popularity in California's agricultural regions. Many families incorporate locally-grown produce and sustainably raised meats into their celebrations, reflecting the state's emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients.

Desserts play a central role in Easter meals, with carrot cake, lemon bars, and colorfully decorated cookies being particular favorites.

Family Gatherings

Easter egg hunts remain the cornerstone of family gatherings, with numerous public events hosted throughout California. Many families also organize private hunts in backyards and parks, often with prize eggs containing special treats or small gifts.

Outdoor activities are especially popular given California's typically pleasant April weather. Family picnics, kite flying, and nature walks allow families to enjoy the spring blooms and sunshine that usually accompany Easter celebrations on April 20, 2025.

Many California families incorporate charitable activities into their Easter traditions. Volunteering at community egg hunts, preparing meals for those in need, or assembling care packages creates meaningful experiences while teaching children about generosity.

Multi-generational gatherings are common, with extended families traveling across the state to celebrate together, particularly in communities with strong cultural ties to Easter traditions.

Public Events

California offers numerous festive gatherings where families can celebrate Easter 2025 together. From traditional egg hunts to elaborate festivals, these events provide opportunities for community connection and holiday enjoyment throughout the state.

Community Egg Hunts

Many California cities will host Easter egg hunts on or around April 20, 2025. Los Angeles parks typically feature age-divided hunting areas with thousands of colorful eggs containing treats and prizes.

In San Diego, Balboa Park transforms into an egg-hunting paradise with multiple timed sessions to accommodate different age groups. Families should arrive early as popular hunts often reach capacity.

The Bay Area communities organize inclusive hunts with accessible options for children with disabilities. Some Northern California locations even offer nighttime hunts for teens using glow-in-the-dark eggs.

Many hunts are free, while others require pre-registration with nominal fees ($5-15 per child). Most events begin promptly at scheduled times, so punctuality is essential.

Easter Festivals

Los Angeles will host its fifth annual Easter Run on April 1, 2025, featuring 1M, 5K, 10K, half marathon, and full marathon options. This event combines fitness with festive spirit as participants often don bunny ears and spring-themed attire.

The Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels offers a unique Easter Sunday mass experience with magnificent architecture and special holiday music programs. After services, many families head to Santa Monica Pier for beachside celebrations.

Sacramento's Easter Festival incorporates agricultural elements with spring farm animal displays and locally produced foods. Children enjoy petting zoos while adults sample regional wines and crafts.

San Francisco's Golden Gate Park hosts cultural performances representing diverse Easter traditions. The festival includes international food booths, craft stations for children, and live music throughout the day.

Cultural Events

California's rich multicultural heritage shapes its Easter celebrations, with influences from Spanish traditions and diverse community practices creating unique experiences across the state.

Spanish Influence

The Spanish mission history of California continues to influence Easter celebrations throughout the state. Many historic missions like Mission San Juan Capistrano and Mission Santa Barbara host special Easter services that blend Catholic traditions with Hispanic cultural elements. These celebrations often feature traditional processions depicting the Stations of the Cross.

Traditional Spanish Easter foods are prominent in many Californian celebrations. Families gather for feasts featuring dishes like bacalao (salt cod), torrijas (similar to French toast), and colorful Easter bread.

In cities with large Hispanic populations, you'll find vibrant community events combining religious observances with cultural festivities. Los Angeles and San Diego host particularly notable celebrations that draw visitors from across the state.

Variety of Celebrations

California's diverse population contributes to a wide range of Easter celebrations beyond Spanish traditions. The Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels in Los Angeles offers unique Easter Sunday masses attracting visitors seeking both spiritual experience and architectural beauty.

Coastal communities embrace California's natural environment with beachside celebrations. Many families head to places like Santa Monica Pier for Easter picnics and relaxation after morning services.

Active Californians can participate in the Easter Run events held throughout the state, with the fifth annual Easter 1M, 5K, 10K, 13.1, and 26.2 mile races scheduled for April 1, 2025.

Cultural centers and museums often hold special Easter exhibitions highlighting different traditions. These events provide educational opportunities alongside celebration, particularly valuable for families with children wanting to explore diverse customs.

Religious Observances

Easter 2025 will feature profound religious traditions throughout California as Christians commemorate the resurrection of Jesus Christ on Sunday, April 20. These sacred observances transform churches and communities across the state with distinctive ceremonies that mark Holy Week's culmination.

Good Friday Services

Good Friday services on April 18, 2025, will solemnly observe the crucifixion of Jesus Christ throughout California. Many Catholic parishes will hold the traditional Stations of the Cross, a devotional practice tracing Jesus's final hours before crucifixion.

In Los Angeles, the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels typically hosts an afternoon liturgy featuring the veneration of the cross. Worshippers approach and honor the cross through gestures of reverence such as bowing or kissing.

Protestant denominations across Northern California often conduct Tenebrae services characterized by gradually dimming lights and extinguishing candles. These symbolize Jesus's suffering and death.

Many churches incorporate dramatic reenactments of the Passion narrative. Some coastal communities organize processions through downtown areas, with participants carrying crosses and stopping for readings and prayer at designated locations.

Sunrise Services

Sunrise services embody Easter's theme of renewal as congregations gather at dawn on April 20, 2025, to celebrate Christ's resurrection. Several California coastal communities host popular beachfront services with spectacular Pacific Ocean backdrops.

Mount Rubidoux in Riverside will likely continue its century-old tradition of drawing thousands for its non-denominational sunrise service. Attendees make a pre-dawn hike to witness worship as the sun emerges.

Popular California Sunrise Service Locations:

• Huntington Beach Pier
• Mount Hollywood in Griffith Park (Los Angeles)
• Presidio Park in San Diego
• Crissy Field in San Francisco

Many services feature special musical performances with brass ensembles and choirs. Practical provisions often include coffee and breakfast refreshments served afterward, creating community fellowship opportunities.

These early morning gatherings typically blend traditional Easter hymns with contemporary worship music. Many incorporate baptism ceremonies as symbols of spiritual rebirth aligning with Easter's themes.

Easter Vigils

Easter Vigil services on Saturday evening, April 19, 2025, represent some of Christianity's most ancient and symbol-rich traditions. Catholic parishes throughout California will begin their vigils after sunset, often starting with the lighting of the Paschal candle from a new fire.

The lengthy service typically includes multiple scripture readings chronicling salvation history. Many congregants will witness adult baptisms and confirmations as new members formally enter the faith community.

Orthodox churches in Sacramento, San Francisco, and Los Angeles will celebrate with distinctive traditions. Their vigils frequently continue until midnight or beyond, incorporating processions and special liturgies.

Episcopal churches across the state maintain similar vigil traditions with the blessing of baptismal water. Congregants often renew their baptismal vows during these services.

The Easter Vigil represents a transition from darkness to light, mirroring the resurrection narrative. Churches use visual and sensory elements including incense, bells, and special musical arrangements that differ from regular services.

Tourism during Easter

Easter holiday travel in California combines religious celebrations with vacation opportunities. Visitors can experience unique traditions, special events, and seasonal attractions throughout the Golden State.

Hotel Packages

Many California hotels offer specialized Easter packages to attract holiday travelers. Terranea Resort in Los Angeles features their annual Easter Brunch in the elegant Palos Verdes Grand Ballroom, a cherished tradition that includes a lavish selection of traditional favorites and seasonal specialties.

Luxury properties in San Francisco, San Diego, and Palm Springs typically include Easter egg hunts on their grounds, special brunches, and family activities. Some coastal resorts provide beach-themed Easter celebrations with oceanfront dining options.

Budget-friendly hotels also join the festivities with discounted rates and complimentary Easter morning treats. Many properties partner with local attractions to create bundled experiences that combine accommodation with nearby Easter events.

Travel Planning

Easter 2025 falls on Sunday, April 20, making it ideal for planning extended weekend getaways. Travelers should book their Easter trips well in advance as this is a popular vacation period in California.

Popular destinations include Los Angeles for its diverse celebrations, including an Easter Sunday mass at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels or a relaxing afternoon at Santa Monica Pier. Active travelers can participate in the fifth annual Easter Run event with 1M, 5K, 10K, half marathon, and full marathon options.

Transportation options should be secured early, especially for coastal and theme park areas. Many attractions offer special Easter programming but may have modified hours on Easter Sunday itself.

Weather in California during April is typically mild and pleasant, making it perfect for both indoor and outdoor Easter activities.

Impact on Businesses

Easter 2025 falling on April 20 creates significant economic opportunities for California businesses. The extended holiday period influences consumer spending patterns and drives increased traffic to retail establishments and restaurants throughout the state.

Retail Sales

Easter-related retail sales in California typically see a substantial boost during the spring season. Businesses can expect a surge in purchases of holiday-specific items beginning approximately three weeks before Easter Sunday.

Candy and chocolate retailers experience among the highest revenue increases, with specialty Easter baskets and seasonal confections driving sales. Department stores and boutiques also benefit from the traditional Easter clothing purchases.

Decoration and home goods stores see increased traffic as Californians prepare their homes for family gatherings. Many retailers report that Easter merchandise begins appearing on shelves immediately after Valentine's Day to maximize the selling season.

The late April date in 2025 creates additional opportunities for outdoor and garden-related sales that might not be as strong during earlier Easter dates.

Restaurant Reservations

California restaurants experience a significant uptick in reservations during the Easter weekend. The holiday consistently ranks among the top five busiest days for dining establishments across the state.

Brunch reservations show the most dramatic increase, with many venues reaching capacity weeks in advance. Popular restaurants in metropolitan areas like Los Angeles and San Francisco often create special Easter Sunday menus featuring seasonal spring ingredients.

Family-style restaurants see larger party sizes during this holiday compared to typical weekends. Many establishments implement:

• Special holiday pricing
• Fixed menu options
• Extended hours to accommodate increased demand
• Family-friendly activities or Easter-themed decorations

Coastal restaurants particularly benefit from the late April date, as weather conditions typically allow for outdoor dining options, increasing overall capacity during this busy weekend.

Local Customs and Crafts

California offers distinctive Easter traditions that reflect its diverse cultural heritage and creative spirit. Visitors and locals alike can experience unique artisanal products and participate in seasonal craft workshops throughout the state.

Local Artisanal Products

California's Easter celebrations feature locally-made artisanal products that blend traditional Easter symbolism with West Coast flair. In San Francisco's Ferry Building Marketplace, artisans sell hand-painted Easter eggs with designs inspired by California landscapes and wildflowers.

Los Angeles farmers' markets showcase locally-produced chocolate Easter bunnies infused with native ingredients like lavender and citrus. These treats peak in availability during the weeks leading up to Easter Sunday on April 20, 2025.

In San Diego, coastal communities offer sea-glass Easter decorations and beach-themed basket fillers that reflect Southern California's connection to the ocean. Many of these items are crafted from sustainable materials, highlighting California's environmental consciousness.

Popular California Easter Artisanal Products:

• Hand-decorated eggs featuring California poppies and coastal scenes
• Artisanal chocolates with local flavor infusions
• Sustainable basket fillers made from recycled materials
• Handwoven baskets incorporating native grasses and fibers

Craft Workshops

Throughout California, community centers and art studios host Easter-themed craft workshops during the Lenten season beginning March 5, 2025. These workshops provide opportunities for families to create personalized Easter decorations while learning about traditional techniques.

The Autry Museum in Los Angeles offers classes on Ukrainian pysanky egg decoration, teaching participants the ancient wax-resist method. These workshops typically run weekends in March and early April 2025, with advanced registration recommended.

In Sonoma County, vineyards host sustainable Easter basket workshops using grape vines and other agricultural by-products. These popular sessions combine craft-making with wine tasting for a distinctly California experience.

Children's museums across the state organize family-friendly workshops focusing on natural dye techniques for Easter eggs. Participants learn to create vibrant colors using ingredients like beets, turmeric, and cabbage.

Santa Barbara's botanic gardens offer Easter wreath-making classes featuring native California plants and flowers, connecting holiday traditions with local ecology and sustainability practices.