Good Friday

Good Friday in Bermuda: A Deep Cultural and Spiritual Tradition

Good Friday in Bermuda is far more than just a date on the calendar; it is a profound intersection of solemn religious devotion and unique island heritage. As a self-governing British Overseas Territory with deep Christian roots, Bermuda observes this day with a reverence that transforms the entire atmosphere of the archipelago. From the quiet sanctuary of the cathedrals in the City of Hamilton to the vibrant, kite-filled skies over Horseshoe Bay, Good Friday represents the heart of Bermudian identity.

The essence of the day is rooted in the commemoration of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. For the local population, it is a time of intense reflection, mourning, and spiritual preparation for the joy of Easter Sunday. However, Bermuda has developed its own distinct way of marking this occasion, blending traditional Anglican and Methodist liturgies with local customs that have been passed down through generations. It is a day where the pace of life slows down significantly, allowing families to gather, share traditional meals, and participate in rituals that are found nowhere else in the world in quite the same way.

What makes Good Friday in Bermuda truly special is the balance between the "holy" and the "homely." While the morning is often dedicated to somber church services and the "Three Hours' Agony" devotion, the afternoon shifts toward a communal celebration of life and resurrection hope, symbolized most famously by the soaring of multi-colored Bermuda kites. This transition from the darkness of the crucifixion to the upward gaze of the kite-flyer captures the unique spirit of the island—a place that honors its history while embracing the vibrant beauty of its natural environment.

When is Good Friday in 2026?

In the year 2026, Good Friday will be observed on Friday, April 3, 2026. As of today, there are 90 days remaining until the holiday begins.

It is important to note that Good Friday is a variable holiday. Unlike holidays with fixed dates like Christmas or Bermuda Day, the date of Good Friday changes every year because it is determined by the lunar calendar. It is observed on the Friday immediately preceding Easter Sunday. Easter itself falls on the first Sunday following the full moon that occurs on or after the spring equinox (March 21). Therefore, Good Friday can fall anywhere between March 20 and April 23. In 2026, the early April date means the island will likely be enjoying the pleasant, mild temperatures of the Bermudian spring, making it an ideal time for outdoor traditions.

The History and Origins of Good Friday in Bermuda

The observance of Good Friday in Bermuda dates back to the early 17th century when the first English settlers arrived on the Sea Venture. These settlers brought with them the traditions of the Church of England, which placed a high priority on the liturgical calendar. Over the centuries, as Bermuda’s population became more diverse through the arrival of enslaved Africans, West Indians, and Portuguese immigrants, the traditions of the day evolved into a unique cultural tapestry.

Historically, Good Friday was a day of strict fasting and abstinence. In the early days of the colony, the "solemnity" of the day was enforced by social custom and religious law. Work was forbidden, and even recreational activities were limited to those that had a symbolic or religious connection. The evolution of the holiday reflects Bermuda's journey from a strictly colonial outpost to a modern, multicultural society that still holds onto its core values of faith and family.

The most iconic Bermudian tradition—the flying of kites—is said to have originated from a Sunday School teacher at an African Methodist Episcopal (AME) church. According to local lore, the teacher was having difficulty explaining the Ascension of Christ to his students. He took them to a high hill and launched a kite decorated with the image of a cross. As the kite rose into the heavens, it provided a visual metaphor for Christ’s ascent. While this specific story is often cited as the origin of the kite-flying custom, the practice has grown to symbolize the resurrection and the lifting of spirits after the somberness of the crucifixion.

Bermudian Traditions and Customs

The Art of the Bermuda Kite

The most visible and famous tradition is the Bermuda Kite. These are not your average store-bought plastic kites; they are hand-crafted works of art. Traditional Bermuda kites are hexagonal or octagonal in shape, made with thin wooden sticks (usually spruce or cedar), colorful tissue paper, and a long cloth tail.

A key feature of the Bermuda kite is the "hummer"—a strip of paper stretched across the top that vibrates in the wind, creating a distinct buzzing or "singing" sound. On Good Friday, the skies across the island, particularly at places like Horseshoe Bay Beach and various cricket clubs, are filled with hundreds of these kites. The "singing" of the kites creates a unique auditory backdrop to the holiday.

Traditional Cuisine: Codfish Cakes and Hot Cross Buns

Food is central to the Bermudian Good Friday experience. The traditional meal consists of codfish cakes served on hot cross buns. This combination might seem unusual to outsiders, but to a Bermudian, it is the taste of the holiday.

1. Codfish Cakes: These are made from salted cod that has been soaked, boiled, and mashed with potatoes, onions, fresh thyme, and various spices. They are then fried until golden brown.
2. Hot Cross Buns: These are sweet, spiced buns marked with a cross on top, representing the crucifixion. In Bermuda, it is customary to split the bun and place the savory codfish cake inside, creating a sweet and salty sandwich.

The consumption of fish on Good Friday stems from the Christian tradition of abstaining from "flesh meat" (mammals and fowl) on Fridays as a form of penance.

Religious Observances

Despite the festive atmosphere of the kite flying, the religious significance remains paramount. Many Bermudians attend church services in the morning. The "Stations of the Cross" is a common devotion, where worshippers move through fourteen stations representing the events of Jesus' final day. In the City of Hamilton, the Cathedral of the Most Holy Trinity and the St. Theresa's Cathedral hold solemn services that attract hundreds of locals and visitors alike.

Practical Information for Residents and Visitors

If you are planning to be in Bermuda on April 3, 2026, it is essential to prepare for a significant shift in the island's operations.

What to Expect

Atmosphere: The morning is very quiet and contemplative. The afternoon becomes more social and active, especially in parks and on beaches. Transport: Public transportation (buses and ferries) usually operates on a Sunday/Holiday schedule, which means services are less frequent. Taxis will be available but may be in high demand. Retail and Dining: Most retail stores in Hamilton, St. George’s, and the Royal Naval Dockyard will be closed. Some restaurants, particularly those located within hotels, will remain open, but it is highly recommended to make reservations well in advance. Beaches: Popular beaches like Horseshoe Bay will be very crowded. If you wish to participate in the kite-flying festivities or simply watch, arrive early to secure a spot.

Respecting the Culture

While visitors are warmly welcomed to join in the kite flying and enjoy the local food, it is important to remember the religious nature of the day. If you are near a church during service times, maintain a respectful volume. When buying or flying a kite, consider purchasing one from a local vendor to support the traditional craftsmanship that keeps this custom alive.

Is Good Friday a Public Holiday?

Yes, Good Friday is a National Public Holiday in Bermuda.

Under the Public Holidays Act, it is a day of rest for the general population. This means: Government Offices: All government offices, including post offices and administrative buildings, are closed. Schools: All public and private schools are closed for the day. Banks: All banking institutions are closed. Businesses: The vast majority of private businesses, including grocery stores and pharmacies, will either be closed entirely or have very limited holiday hours. Residents are advised to complete their grocery shopping by the Thursday evening prior.

For workers who are required to work on this day (such as essential services, hospitality, and emergency personnel), labor laws in Bermuda typically dictate that they receive "Public Holiday Pay," which is often a higher rate (time-and-a-half or double-time) as compensation for working on a sacred national day.

Good Friday in Bermuda is a beautiful example of how a community can honor ancient traditions while creating a vibrant, living culture. Whether you are reflecting in a quiet pew, tasting the spicy-sweet combination of a codfish bun, or looking up at a kite dancing in the Atlantic breeze, the day offers a unique insight into the soul of the island. As 2026 approaches, the anticipation for this day of faith, family, and tradition continues to grow across the 21 square miles of our Atlantic home.