Not an official holiday
All Souls' Day
185 DAYS
00 HOURS
32 MINUTES
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Historical Context
All Souls' Day falls on 2 November every year and is not an official public holiday. It is the day of remembrance for the deceased, the day after All Saints' Day.
All Souls' Day on 2 November is a Catholic day of remembrance for all the deceased. The day follows All Saints' Day (1 November) and was introduced in the tenth century by the monk Odilo of Cluny. All Souls' Day carries a strong tradition of visiting cemeteries and honouring the departed.
On All Souls' Day, Belgians visit cemeteries in large numbers to lay flowers, mainly chrysanthemums, on the graves of their loved ones. Candles are placed on graves as a symbol of light and hope. In some parishes, special masses are celebrated for the souls of the deceased.
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Frequently asked questions
Is All Souls' Day an official public holiday in Belgium?
No, All Souls' Day (2 November) is not an official public holiday. It is a religious tradition but not a paid day off.
What is the difference between All Saints' Day and All Souls' Day?
All Saints' Day (1 November) honours all saints and is an official public holiday. All Souls' Day (2 November) remembers the deceased but is not an official public holiday.
What are the typical traditions on All Souls' Day?
Families visit the cemetery to place flowers, mainly chrysanthemums, and candles on the graves of their loved ones.