All Souls' (Meatfare) Saturday in 2026
In the Orthodox Christian calendar, All Souls' Saturday, also known as Meatfare Saturday, will be observed on February 14, 2026. This solemn day precedes the start of Maslenitsa (Butter Week) and the Great Lent. Its designation as "All Souls'" stems from the collective commemoration of all departed Orthodox faithful. The term "Meatfare" indicates that this Saturday falls during the week before the Sunday after which the consumption of meat is traditionally ceased, making it the final day for meat-eating before the Lenten fast begins.
Traditions and Observances
On All Souls' Saturday, the primary observances for the faithful include attending church services, submitting memorial notes for the departed, participating in the memorial service (panikhida), and praying for deceased relatives and all who have passed. This day provides a special opportunity for prayerful remembrance. For those unable to attend a church, the Church recommends the following practices at home:
- Offer prayers for the departed;
- Light a candle in their memory;
- Share fond recollections of them;
- Perform an act of charity or make a donation in their name.
The Church encourages a reverent approach to this holy day and advises against boisterous festivities, entertainment, excessive feasting with alcohol, arguments, and negativity. It is important to avoid reducing the commemoration to a mere formality, as this day holds deep spiritual significance, offering a chance to honor the memory of the departed within the family circle. This observance is a cornerstone of Orthodox spiritual life, particularly as a period of reflection before the penitential season of Lent.
All Souls' Saturday is a significant event in the Orthodox calendar, allowing believers to remember their departed loved ones. It fosters spiritual cleansing and strengthens family bonds, especially in the context of the approaching Great Lent. Remembering and honoring the deceased forms a vital part of traditions passed down through generations, underscoring the enduring value of familial ties within Orthodox culture.