Lent 2025. When does it start and what is forbidden during this period?

Easter is one of the most important holidays for all Christian believers. However, no less important is the period before the holiday, which prepares people for the Resurrection of Christ. Find out why we need Lent and what rules we need to follow

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Lent is an important period in the church calendar of Orthodox Christians when believers prepare themselves for the celebration of Christ's Resurrection (Easter). In 2025, Easter falls on 20 April, which means that Lent begins on Maundy Monday, 3 March, and lasts until Lazarus Saturday (12 April). This is followed by Holy Week, which ends with Easter. Each of the seven weeks is filled with a special spiritual meaning.

What is Lent and what is its essence?

Lent is a time of spiritual concentration, repentance and restraint not only in food but also in habits. During the forty days of Lent, believers strive to purify their souls, intensify prayer and focus on their spiritual life.

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The main prohibitions of Lent

Food restrictions

Meat, animal fats, dairy products and eggs are excluded.

Vegetables, fruits, cereals, legumes, mushrooms and vegetable oils are allowed (on certain days).

Fish is usually permitted on the feasts of the Annunciation (7 April) and Palm Sunday (13 April), but at other times it is also recommended to refrain from eating it.

Refusal of entertainment

During Lent, it is advisable for believers to avoid noisy events, excessive use of social media and anything that distracts from spiritual growth and prayer.

Observance of moderation in everyday life

It is recommended to reduce household expenses, watch less entertainment programmes, giving preference to reading spiritual literature and quiet, contemplative activities.

Spiritual discipline

Lent involves intense prayer, penitential canons and attendance at worship services. The Church calls for more frequent communion and confession during this period.

It is during Lent that people try to visit spiritual shrines more often. With Visit Ukraine, it is very easy to do this - you will find special tours to cathedrals and churches, such as:

1. Temples of the Yaremche region

2. A tour of the Pechersk Lavra

3. Churches of Lviv. Individual tour

You can find more offers in our tour bank.

It is also important to remember that the fasting measures may vary depending on the recommendations of the priest or medical indications. The degree of strictness of fasting is a matter of personal choice, inner readiness and physical health.

We remind you! Easter in Ukraine is not just a religious holiday, it is a real celebration of life, spring and renewal. This day carries with it centuries-old traditions and customs, some of which may still be found today, but most of which have been forgotten by our generation. We told you how the ancestors of Ukrainians celebrated Easter and why preparations for the holiday lasted throughout Holy Week.

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