When Is Palm Sunday in 2026? Date, Meaning and Traditions

Palm Sunday in 2026 falls on Sunday 29 March 2026. It marks the beginning of Holy Week in the Christian calendar and is celebrated by Christians around the world as the day Jesus made his triumphal entry into Jerusalem, welcomed by crowds waving palm branches.

⭐ Recommended Products & Ideas — Palm Sunday

• Palm Sunday Crosses & Palm Fronds
Traditional palm crosses or preserved palm fronds to commemorate Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem — perfect for church services or home display.
👉 Click here to see top options

• Palm Sunday Devotional Book or Guide
A reflection resource with readings and prayers focused on the themes of Palm Sunday and Holy Week.
👉 Click here to see top options

• Holy Week Prayer & Reflection Journal
Track your thoughts, prayers, and insights through Palm Sunday into Easter — ideal for personal devotion or spiritual growth.
👉 Click here to see top options

• Palm Sunday Candle or Worship Candle
A special candle to light at home or during service, symbolising hope and celebration as the Passion Week begins.
👉 Click here to see top options

• Children’s Palm Sunday Activity Set
Craft kits, colouring pages, and storybooks that help kids learn the meaning of Palm Sunday in a fun, engaging way.
👉 Click here to see top options

Palm Sunday always occurs one week before Easter Sunday, which is why its date changes each year.

What Is Palm Sunday?

Palm Sunday commemorates the moment described in the Gospels when Jesus entered Jerusalem riding on a donkey. Crowds spread palm branches and cloaks on the road, shouting praises and recognising him as a king.

The palm branches symbolise:

• Victory and triumph
• Peace and humility
• Fulfilment of biblical prophecy

This event marks the final week of Jesus’ life before his crucifixion and resurrection.

Why Does the Date of Palm Sunday Change Every Year?

Palm Sunday’s date changes because it is linked to Easter, which is calculated using the lunar calendar.

Easter Sunday falls on:

• The first Sunday after the first full moon
• Following the spring equinox

Palm Sunday is always the Sunday before Easter, so its date moves accordingly each year.

Palm Sunday Traditions in the UK

Palm Sunday is observed in churches across the UK with a variety of long-standing traditions.

Palm Branches and Crosses

• Congregations receive palm leaves or palm crosses
• In some churches, these are saved and later burned to make ashes for the next Ash Wednesday

Processions

• Many churches hold outdoor or indoor processions
• Worshippers walk while carrying palms, symbolising Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem

Special Church Services

• Readings from the Passion narrative
• Hymns reflecting both joy and the coming sorrow of Holy Week

Why Are Palm Leaves Used?

Palm leaves were a symbol of victory and honour in biblical times. Their use on Palm Sunday reflects how Jesus was welcomed as a king — though his kingship was spiritual rather than political.

In places where palm leaves are unavailable, churches may use:

• Yew
• Willow
• Olive branches

Palm Sunday and Holy Week

Palm Sunday opens Holy Week, which includes several important Christian observances:

• Maundy Thursday – The Last Supper
• Good Friday – The crucifixion of Jesus
• Holy Saturday – A day of reflection
• Easter Sunday – The resurrection

Palm Sunday balances celebration with reflection, marking the shift from joy to solemn remembrance.

Is Palm Sunday a Public Holiday?

Palm Sunday is not a public holiday in the UK, but it remains one of the most significant Sundays in the Christian year and is widely observed through church services.

Final Thoughts

Palm Sunday in 2026 on 29 March marks the powerful beginning of Holy Week. It is a day rich in symbolism, reminding Christians of humility, sacrifice, and the events leading up to Easter. Through palm branches, processions, and worship, the story of Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem continues to be remembered and reflected upon each year.