Orthodox Christmas awaits us only in January, but for true believers, the approach to it is special. They begin preparing for the holiday in advance and limit themselves in entertainment and food for more than a month.
This is all to spiritually cleanse oneself and meet the Epiphany in full harmony of spirit and matter.
Observing the fast is, of course, optional, especially if you have contraindications, but if you are firmly determined to observe the Christmas fast in 2025, we will tell you about its history and restrictions.
What is the Christmas Fast
The Christmas Fast is considered one of the oldest. The first mentions of it can be found in the writings of St. Ambrose of Milan, who died in 397 AD. By the way, at that time, the Christmas Fast lasted only 7 days.
Only after the Constantinople Council of 1166 did the church establish uniformity for all Christians, and the Christmas Fast became forty days long — in memory of Christ fasting in the desert for forty days.
Not only the duration of the Christmas Fast remains unchanged, but also the time of its observance, as it is tied to a specific event with a specific date — Christmas, which is traditionally celebrated on January 7. Accordingly, the Christmas Fast in 2025 began today, November 28, and will last until January 6, 2026.
Why is this Fast Called Fish Fast?
The Christmas Fast is often referred to as the Fish Fast. This is because during this time, fish is often allowed to be eaten.
It can be conditionally divided into three stages:
November 28 — December 19: Fish can be eaten, except on Wednesdays and Fridays, and on Mondays, it is advisable to refrain from vegetable oil. The only exception is the Feast of the Entry of the Most Holy Theotokos into the Temple, celebrated on December 4. On this day, fish is permitted.
December 20–31: The consumption of fish decreases during this time. Now it can only be eaten on weekends. But there are exceptions here as well. Thus, December 24 marks the Sunday of the Holy Forefathers, December 26 is the Day of the Martyrs Eustratius, Axentius, Eugene, Mardarius, and Orestes, and December 31 is the Sunday of the Holy Fathers. Fish is allowed on these days.
January 1–6: Fish is not eaten during these days; dry food (unprocessed products) is recommended. On weekends, hot food with vegetable oil can be consumed.
On Sundays, one can allow oneself a little wine — no more than one glass.
To remember what to eat on which days during the Christmas Fast, we have created a convenient calendar.
It is important to remember that dietary restrictions are not the main focus of the Christmas Fast. The main thing is the purity of thoughts and soul. Orthodoxy does not demand the impossible from a person, and doctors do not advise keeping oneself within strict limits if you have certain restrictions or contraindications.
Moreover, besides dietary restrictions, there are other limitations during the Christmas Fast.
What Not to Do During the Christmas Fast
Fasting and going to church are not the only things to do during the fast. First and foremost, it is necessary to refrain from the main sinful inclinations:
– laziness;
– gluttony;
– despondency;
– deceit;
– anger.
It is also better to give up harmful habits.
It is also believed that if one gives alms during the Christmas Fast, then money will never run out in the wallet.
