THE RULES OF THE CHRISTMAS FAST IN THE ORTHODOX TRADITION

The Christmas Fast is one of the most significant periods of fasting in the Orthodox Christian tradition. It represents a time of spiritual peace, prayer, mutual tolerance, and the renewal of both soul and body.

According to the calendar of the Serbian Orthodox Church, the Christmas Fast in 2025 begins on November 28 (Gregorian calendar) and lasts until Christmas Eve, January 6, 2026. The fast lasts a total of 40 days, during which believers prepare for the celebration of the Nativity of Christ.

Although considered milder than the Easter Fast, the Christmas Fast still follows clearly defined rules. Meat, dairy products, and eggs are prohibited. Alcohol is generally avoided, except on days when the use of oil and wine is permitted. Believers are encouraged to refrain from heavy, greasy, and overly rich foods.

Levels of Strictness Throughout the Fast

One of the major feast days during the early period of the fast is the Entry of the Most Holy Theotokos into the Temple (December 4). Since the feast falls on a Thursday in 2025, food prepared with oil is allowed.

The Final Week – The Strictest Period

During the last seven days of the fast, fish is no longer permitted.

On Christmas Eve (Badnji dan), believers observe a strict fast, while fish is allowed during the evening meal on Christmas Eve.

Spiritual Fasting – The Essence of the Fast

Clergy continually remind the faithful that the true purpose of fasting is spiritual purification, not merely abstinence from certain foods. As Saint John Chrysostom teaches, fasting has little value unless it is accompanied by inner peace and sincere personal transformation.

“Do not say: I have fasted this many days, I have avoided this or that food… Instead ask yourself: have you become gentler? If your heart is still filled with anger, why torment your body?”