Good Friday is the Christian observance commemorating the crucifixion and death of Jesus Christ at Calvary. It falls on the Friday before Easter Sunday and is a public holiday in most Christian-majority countries.
The early Christian church observed the death of Jesus as part of an integrated Easter triduum from at least the 4th century. The name "Good" derives from Old English "god" ("holy"). The date varies because it depends on the lunar-calculated date of Easter — it falls between March 20 and April 23 (Western calendar).
Solemn church services, often featuring the Stations of the Cross — fourteen meditative stops representing Jesus's path to crucifixion. Many denominations observe fasting and abstinence from meat. In some countries, processions reenact the Passion. Hot cross buns are traditional in the UK and Commonwealth.
Fish (no meat). Hot cross buns. Fasting foods. In Italy, Pasta con le Sarde or simple soups.
Traditionally a solemn day — no festive greetings.
Public holiday in most Christian-majority countries. Banks, schools, government offices close. In some US states it's observed; not a federal holiday. Easter Monday (the following Monday) is also a holiday in most European countries and Australia/NZ/Canada.
Future dates for moving holidays (Easter, Eid, Lunar New Year, Diwali, etc.) are computed and approximate; the actual public-holiday date in some countries is fixed by official decree closer to the date.
This holiday is also publicly observed in: