Apple Spas August 6: history, traditions and what you should never do

In the traditions of the Orthodox Church, this holiday is associated with the biblical event of the Transfiguration of Jesus Christ before the apostles Peter, John, and James on Mount Tabor. According to scripture, during prayer, Jesus was enveloped in heavenly light, his face shone, and his clothing became pure white. After this, descending from the mountain, he commanded his disciples to gather apples for their blessing by the Lord.

According to glavcom.ua: Apple Spas is an important Christian holiday, officially known as the Transfiguration of the Lord. It is often called the Second Spas in the people.

The Apple Spas holiday is closely intertwined with ancient church and folk traditions. On this day, it is customary to honor the memory of deceased relatives. By tradition, the fruits blessed in the church are taken to the cemetery and left on the graves of loved ones.

Churches conduct services on the holiday, and parishioners dress in light or white clothing. They come with baskets filled with fruits and berries - apples, pears, plums, grapes - which are blessed after the service.

History of the holiday

On the day of the Apple Spas, people pay tribute to Jesus Christ. This day is also known as the Spas on the mountain. According to church tradition, on August 6, 40 days before Christ's crucifixion, Jesus, accompanied by three of his disciples - Peter, John, and James - ascended Mount Tabor. At this place, the Savior received a sign of his future martyrdom on the cross for the salvation of humanity and his subsequent resurrection. According to legends, the name of the holiday, Transfiguration, emerged due to a miraculous phenomenon: during prayer, Christ's face suddenly shone like the sun, and his clothing became incredibly white, like light. After descending from the mountain, Jesus called to gather apples for their blessing in the church.

The celebration of the Apple Spas dates back to the 4th century. It was then that a temple dedicated to the Transfiguration of the Lord was built on Mount Tabor. People brought gifts of nature - apples or grapes - to be blessed.

This day is recorded in the church calendar to remind believers of the need for spiritual purification and self-improvement. The Apple Spas is an unchanging holiday celebrated annually on August 6.

Traditions

People bring baskets of apples, grapes, pears, and other fruits to the church for blessing. On the festive table, fruit pastries are usually served; however, all dishes must be lean, as the Assumption fast began on August 1, 2025.

There is a belief that during the consumption of the first blessed apple on Apple Spas, wishes can be made. Before the holiday of the Transfiguration and the blessing of the fruits in the church, it is recommended to refrain from food from the fresh harvest. From August 6, there is also a prohibition on work at home, in the garden, or engaging in handicrafts, as this day is advised to be devoted to good deeds and reflections on spiritual diversity.

Additionally, it is advisable to forgive all grievances and avoid conflicts with others.

According to popular belief, on Apple Spas, it is not advisable to harm insects. It is said that if a fly lands on your hand twice, it is a sign of a happy year.

The event of Apple Spas is closely connected with the biblical event of the Transfiguration of Jesus Christ and symbolizes an important event in Christian tradition. Believers honor the memory of their deceased and celebrate this holiday with the blessing of fruits and church services. Traditions associated with Apple Spas help people connect with the high values of spirituality and mercy.