On Palm Sunday, Christians throughout the world celebrate the day Jesus triumphantly entered Jerusalem days before his crucifixion.

Crowds left palm branches and clothing in his path as a sign of praise and respect.

Here’s what you need to know about the Sunday that launches the holiest days for the world’s Christians:

When is it celebrated?

Palm Sunday is the last Sunday of Lent and first day of Holy Week. It falls on the Sunday before Easter and is always a movable feast.

Why does Palm Sunday matter to Christians?

The day marks Jesus’ monumental arrival in Jerusalem, the start of the march to his death on a wooden cross. It’s also known as Passion Sunday in honor his suffering and death before his resurrection.

How is it observed?