In 2026, the Greek Orthodox Church will observe Pascha on April 12. This significant event is preceded by a rich liturgical calendar beginning on February 23 with Clean Monday, known in Greek as Kathara Deftera. This day signifies the end of the Carnival season, or Apokries, and ushers in Sarakosti, the period of Great Lent.
Timeline of Events Leading to Greek Orthodox Easter 2026
The Lenten season lasts 40 days, but includes an extension to 48 days when Holy Week is accounted for. This period is essential for spiritual growth and is referred to as “bright sadness,” where followers willingly refrain from certain foods.
Key Dates in the 2026 Lenten Calendar
- February 23: Clean Monday—Beginning of Great Lent marked by kite flying and eating lagana (unleavened bread) and seafood.
- February 23 – April 4: Sarakosti—A time for prayer and self-reflection, with specific dietary restrictions.
- March 6: First Salutation Service—A series dedicated to the Virgin Mary through the Akathist Hymn.
- March 13: Second Salutation Service
- March 20: Third Salutation Service
- March 27: Fourth Salutation Service
- April 3: Complete Akathist Hymn sung
- April 4: Lazarus Saturday—Celebrates the resurrection of Lazarus, foreshadowing Christ’s resurrection.
- April 5: Palm Sunday—Commemorating Christ’s entry into Jerusalem with a traditional fish dinner.
- April 5 – April 11: Holy Week—This intensely spiritual week recounts the final events of Jesus’s life.
- April 9: Holy Thursday—The Crucified One is mourned amid church services centered around the Twelve Gospels.
- April 10: Holy Friday—A day of mourning where the Epitaphios is paraded, symbolizing Christ’s tomb.
- April 11: Holy Saturday—The morning “First Resurrection” service transitions to the midnight Anastasis, where the “Holy Light” is shared among the faithful.
- April 12: Easter Sunday (Pascha)—Families gather to celebrate with traditional foods and the joyous announcement of “Christos Anesti” (Christ is Risen).
The year 2026 will not feature a joint celebration with the Catholic Church, as their Easter falls earlier, on April 5. This divergence highlights the unique traditions of the Greek Orthodox faith during the solemn yet joyous Lenten season.
