Maundy Thursday 2025

Description

Maundy Thursday is a Christian holy day. In Czech it is often called Zelený čtvrtek or Velký čtvrtek. The day remembers an important event in the story of Jesus and his friends.

It always falls on the Thursday before Easter Sunday. The exact date changes every year because Easter is a moveable feast tied to the lunar calendar. People mark it during Holy Week leading to Easter.

The day recalls the Last Supper. That is the meal Jesus shared with his disciples the night before he died. It is a time to think about service, friendship, and care for others.

Maundy comes from a Latin word meaning commandment. The word points to Jesus asking followers to love and serve one another. For many Christians the day begins the most solemn three day period before Easter.

Traditions

In the Czech Republic Maundy Thursday is often called Zelený čtvrtek. Families cook and eat green foods such as spinach soup, boiled greens and herbal dishes. The green meal is a clear and fun custom for the day.

Many people go to church. Services can include the washing of feet and special evening prayers. Some churches have a ritual of stripping the altar and covering statues to mark the change in the church season.

At home people start Easter preparations. They bake sweet breads like mazanec, make cakes, dye and decorate eggs, and set out pussy willow branches. Homes are cleaned and herbs or branches may be planted for spring.

Travel Tips

Many shops and some museums close on Maundy Thursday or have shorter hours. Public transport may run on a holiday timetable and trains can be busy. Check opening times and book tickets or restaurants in advance.

Join small local services or quiet walks in parks to enjoy the day safely and respectfully. Carry ID, keep bags zipped in crowds, know emergency numbers, and have cash because some places may not accept cards.