Palm Sunday 2026: Meaning and Date of Celebration
Palm Sunday, known in Armenian tradition as Tsaghkazard, is one of the twelve major feasts of the Christian Church. It commemorates the Entry of the Lord into Jerusalem, an event described in the Gospels and observed by the Armenian Apostolic Church and other Christian denominations worldwide.
The date of Palm Sunday is movable, as it is directly connected to Easter. The feast is always celebrated on the Sunday one week before Easter. In 2026, Armenians will observe Palm Sunday on March 29.
Traditions and Symbolism
On Palm Sunday, willow branches are blessed in churches and distributed to the faithful, often together with candles. This tradition recalls how people welcomed Jesus into Jerusalem with palm branches in their hands. In Armenian culture, willow branches are used instead of palm leaves due to local climate conditions.
The softness and flexibility of the willow branches symbolize humility, peace, and devotion, reflecting the spiritual attitude expected of Christ’s followers.
Spiritual Meaning of the Feast
The meaning of Palm Sunday is deeply connected to the path Christ willingly chose. According to Christian teaching, Jesus entered Jerusalem knowing that He would soon face suffering and crucifixion for the sins of humanity, followed by His resurrection, which brings victory over death for believers.
The Gospel narrative describes how Jesus, accompanied by His disciples, entered Jerusalem riding on a donkey. The city was filled with excitement, as just days earlier Christ had raised Lazarus from the dead. Many welcomed Him as the promised Messiah and King, hoping He would deliver them from Roman rule.
Holy Week After Palm Sunday
The week following Palm Sunday and leading up to Easter is known as Holy Week. Each day of this week is considered spiritually significant and is associated with key events from Christ’s earthly life, including His teachings, suffering, crucifixion, and resurrection.
The central liturgical services of Holy Week begin on Holy Thursday, marking the start of the most solemn days in the Christian calendar.
