Palm Sunday, observed this year on Sunday, marks the beginning of Holy Week, a period recognized by millions of people worldwide as a time of reflection, tradition and cultural observance.
The day commemorates a moment described in Christian tradition when Jesus entered Jerusalem and was greeted by crowds waving palm branches, seen as a symbol of peace and welcome.
Today, palm branches remain a central visual element of the observance, often woven into crosses or carried during services.
Palm Sunday is observed by many Christian denominations, including Roman Catholic and Anglican traditions, as well as other Protestant and Orthodox communities.
On Key Biscayne, the start of Holy Week will be marked at local churches including St. Agnes Catholic Church and St. Christopher’s by-the-Sea Episcopal Church, where services traditionally include the blessing and distribution of palm branches.
In many parts of the world, the observance blends faith, history and local custom. Processions, music and community gatherings are common, and in some regions, palms are replaced with olive branches or other native plants.
For many, Palm Sunday also serves as a seasonal marker, aligning with themes of renewal and reflection.
As Holy Week begins, communities across South Florida and beyond will mark the occasion in ways that reflect both tradition and modern life through services, cultural events and quiet personal observance.