About Ascension Day
Ascension Day commemorates the ascension of Jesus Christ into heaven, traditionally observed 40 days after Easter Sunday. Many churches hold special services, and in several countries it is a public holiday. It marks a key event in Christian belief and the transition toward Pentecost.
Where it's celebrated
'%3e%3cpath fill='%23012169' d='M0 0v30h60V0z'/%3e%3cpath stroke='%23fff' stroke-width='6' d='m0 0 60 30m0-30L0 30'/%3e%3cpath stroke='%23C8102E' stroke-width='4' d='m0 0 60 30m0-30L0 30' clip-path='url(%23b)'/%3e%3cpath stroke='%23fff' stroke-width='10' d='M30 0v30M0 15h60'/%3e%3cpath stroke='%23C8102E' stroke-width='6' d='M30 0v30M0 15h60'/%3e%3c/g%3e%3c/svg%3e)
'/%3e%3c/defs%3e%3cpath fill='%23012169' d='M0 0h10080v5040H0z'/%3e%3cpath stroke='%23fff' stroke-width='.6' d='m0 0 6 3m0-3L0 3' clip-path='url(%23b)' transform='scale(840)'/%3e%3cpath stroke='%23e4002b' stroke-width='.4' d='m0 0 6 3m0-3L0 3' clip-path='url(%23c)' transform='scale(840)'/%3e%3cpath stroke='%23fff' stroke-width='840' d='M2520 0v2520M0 1260h5040'/%3e%3cpath stroke='%23e4002b' stroke-width='504' d='M2520 0v2520M0 1260h5040'/%3e%3cg fill='%23fff'%3e%3cuse xlink:href='%23d' x='2520' y='3780'/%3e%3cuse xlink:href='%23a' x='7560' y='4200'/%3e%3cuse xlink:href='%23a' x='6300' y='2205'/%3e%3cuse xlink:href='%23a' x='7560' y='840'/%3e%3cuse xlink:href='%23a' x='8680' y='1869'/%3e%3cuse xlink:href='%23e' x='8064' y='2730'/%3e%3c/g%3e%3c/svg%3e)
Other years
Traditions & activities
Traditions
- Attending Ascension Day church services
- Processions or outdoor services (in some regions)
- Singing hymns focused on the ascension
- Community gatherings (where it is a public holiday)
Activities
- Church services
- Community events (in some countries)
- Family gatherings
- Religious education activities
Symbols & foods
Symbols
- Clouds (ascension imagery)
- Cross (Christian faith)
- Candles (light and hope)
- Dove (Holy Spirit anticipation)
Traditional foods
- Regional pastries and breads
- Holiday meals (varies by country)
- Seasonal spring foods
History & significance
History
Ascension Day has been observed since at least the 4th century as part of the Easter season. The timing comes from New Testament accounts describing Jesus' appearances after the resurrection and his ascension. Over time, it became one of the principal feasts in the Christian liturgical calendar.
Significance
Ascension Day emphasizes Jesus' exaltation and reinforces the hope of spiritual renewal, leading into Pentecost.
Frequently asked questions
When is Ascension Day 2028?
Ascension Day 2028 is on May 25, 2028 (Thursday).
Is Ascension Day a public holiday?
In many countries it is an official public holiday, but public holiday status varies by country and region.
What day of the week is Ascension Day 2028?
Ascension Day 2028 falls on a Thursday.
Is Ascension Day 2028 a fixed date holiday?
Ascension Day 2028 is a variable date holiday. 39 days after Easter
Which countries celebrate Ascension Day?
Ascension Day is celebrated in 14 countries including United Kingdom, Australia, Germany, France and more.