Orthodox Good Friday 2027: Date, Start Time & Holy Week Schedule

Orthodox Good Friday 2027 falls on Friday, April 30, 2027. Orthodox Easter (Pascha) follows on Sunday, May 2, 2027.

That is 35 days after Western Good Friday on March 26. The gap exists because most Orthodox churches calculate Easter with the Julian calendar.

Orthodox Good Friday 2027 at a Glance

When Does Orthodox Good Friday Start and End?

On the civil calendar, the day runs from midnight to midnight on April 30. In Orthodox worship, however, the liturgical day begins at sundown the evening before.

That means Good Friday services begin on Thursday evening, April 29, with the Matins of the Holy Passion. This service includes twelve Gospel readings about the trial and crucifixion of Jesus. The observance continues through Friday and ends with evening services that lead into Holy Saturday.

Orthodox Holy Week 2027 Calendar

Here is the full Holy Week schedule:

• Lazarus Saturday: April 24
• Palm Sunday: April 25
• Great and Holy Monday through Wednesday: April 26 to 28
• Great and Holy Thursday: April 29
• Great and Holy Friday (Good Friday): April 30
• Great and Holy Saturday: May 1
• Pascha (Orthodox Easter): May 2
• Bright Monday: May 3

Great Lent began on Clean Monday, March 15, 2027. Good Friday falls near the end of the longest fasting season of the Orthodox year.

Planning Tips for April 30, 2027

• Ask for time off early. Holy Week services run across several days, including Thursday evening.
• Confirm service times. Parish schedules differ, so check the church website or call ahead.
• Dress modestly. Many Orthodox churches expect covered shoulders, and some ask women to cover their heads.
• Arrive early. Good Friday evening services are often crowded, especially the Epitaphios procession.
• Expect long services. Plan to stand for extended periods, since many churches have limited seating.

FAQs

Also see:

Good Friday 2027 Dates

2027 Holidays in the United States