Pentecost
Also calledWhitsunday
Observed byRoman Catholics, Eastern Catholics, Old Catholics, Protestants, Eastern Orthodox, Oriental Orthodox, Anglicans and other Christians
TypeChristian
SignificanceCelebrates the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the Apostles and other followers of Jesus; birth of the Church
CelebrationsReligious (church) services, festive meals, processions, baptism, confirmation, ordination, folk customs, dancing, spring & woodland rites, festive clothing
ObservancesPrayer, vigils, fasting (pre-festival), novenas, retreats, Holy Communion, litany
DateEaster + 49 days
2018 date
  • May 20 (Western)
  • May 27 (Eastern)
2019 date
  • June 9 (Western)
  • June 16 (Eastern)
2020 date
  • May 31 (Western)
  • June 7 (Eastern)
Related toShavuot