The Octave of Easter is an eight-day celebration in the Catholic Church, starting on Easter Sunday and ending on the following Sunday, which is known as Divine Mercy Sunday.
So it runs from:
Easter Sunday ➝ to the next Sunday (8 days total)
Why 8 Days?
In Catholic tradition, a liturgical octave is a way of giving special honor and extended celebration to a feast. The number 8 symbolizes a “new beginning”—just as Jesus rose from the dead on the “eighth day” (the day after the Sabbath), starting something new for all humanity.
So, during the Easter Octave, the joy of the Resurrection is so important that the Church treats each of these eight days like a continuation of Easter Sunday itself.
What Happens During the Octave?
- Every day is a Solemnity—the highest type of feast day.
- At daily Mass, the Gloria is sung (normally reserved for Sundays and feasts).
- The Easter Alleluia continues to ring out in prayers and songs.
- Readings focus on Resurrection appearances of Jesus.
- The Easter candle remains prominently displayed and lit.
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