Whit Monday was part of the Pentecost Octave and was considered a public holiday in many parts of the world.
In the current liturgical calendar, the celebration of Pentecost ends on Pentecost Sunday.
However, for many centuries it was extended with a Pentecost Octave, and the first few days of that octave were considered special days of rest.
The Catholic Encyclopedia explains the history of this major feast in the Church's calendar.
This week in the Church's calendar was also called "Whitsun week," recognizing the tradition of baptizing catechumens at the Pentecost Vigil, similar to the Easter Vigil.
After the celebration of Baptism at Pentecost, the newly baptized would be vested in a white alb, symbolizing their new birth in the life of grace.
They may have also worn these white albs during the Pentecost Octave, a similar custom that was practiced during the Easter Octave.
Currently Pentecost Monday is now celebrated as the Memorial of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of the Church, a celebration instituted by Pope Francis.
