weekends

A weekend is the period at the end of the workweek set aside for rest, recreation, and personal activities. In most countries it comprises two days, typically Saturday and Sunday, though the exact days vary by region and culture. The two-day weekend became widespread during the 20th century as part of the shift to a five-day workweek, with employers and labor movements promoting a predictable rest period.

Regional variations are common. Most of the Americas, Europe, and much of Asia observe a Saturday–Sunday weekend. In many Gulf countries, Friday–Saturday is the standard, to align with weekly prayers; in Israel, Friday–Saturday is also typical, with Sunday often treated as a regular workday. Some places have one-day weekends or designate Sunday as a normal weekday.

Religious and cultural observances shape weekends. Judaism emphasizes the Sabbath from Friday evening to Saturday evening; Christianity traditionally observes Sunday as a day of worship and rest; in some Muslim-majority contexts Friday is a day of congregational prayer. These practices influence business hours, public life, and the structure of the weekly calendar.

Economy and life: Weekends influence retail patterns, travel, and entertainment. Some jurisdictions maintain restrictions on certain activities on Sundays, historically called blue laws, while modern work cultures increasingly support flexible or remote arrangements that blur the line between work and leisure.

Education and daily life: Schools typically close on weekends in many countries, making Saturdays and Sundays the primary period for family time, hobbies, and rest.