Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of the period of Lent. They're two of the most important liturgical events for Christians and help prepare them for Easter.

Easter falls on the first Sunday after the full moon that occurs on or after the spring equinox. This year, Easter is Sunday, April 20.

However, Easter falls much later than usual this year. While the holiday sometimes comes in March, it can take place anywhere from March 22 through April 25, and this year, it falls closer to the latter.