Today is Apple Spas: What Is Blessed in Church and What Restrictions Should Be Observed
6 August 00:03
Today, August 6, believers will celebrate Apple Spas, which is considered the transition from summer to fall. On this day, it is traditional to have baskets filled with summer gifts blessed in churches. "Komersant Ukrainian" has compiled all the information about what to put in a festive basket, what traditions Ukrainians observe, and what is not recommended on this day.
Apple Spas 2026 – When It Is Celebrated
Every year, Eastern Orthodox Christians celebrate the Feast of the Transfiguration of the Lord. Another name for the holiday is Apple Spas.
According to the biblical account, on this day, Christ and his disciples ascended Mount Tabor. Jesus began to pray, and his face was illuminated by an unearthly light, while his clothes turned white.
Previously, Apple Spas was celebrated on August 19. However, due to the OCU’s transition to the New Julian calendar, in 2026 believers will celebrate this feast earlier—on August 6.
Apple Savior: What to Have Blessed at Church
On Apple Savior Day, it is traditional to have baskets filled with the bounty of summer blessed. Apples are traditionally the main symbol of the holiday. They embody prosperity, fertility, a bountiful harvest, and God’s blessing.
In addition to apples, you can bring the following to church:
- pears;
- grapes;
- plums;
- peaches;
- other seasonal fruits;
- berries;
- freshly harvested vegetables;
- honey;
- aromatic herbs;
- flowers;
- homemade apple pastries.
After the blessing, these foods are traditionally shared among family members with prayer and words of thanksgiving.
These gifts are blessed in church and then distributed among family members. Meat, alcohol, and money are not placed in the basket—this is forbidden.
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What traditions exist on Apple Spas?
The blessed foods are considered a special blessing; they are eaten as a sign of gratitude to God for nature’s bounty.
Since ancient times, after the church service, housewives have prepared dishes from the new harvest.
Particularly popular were:
- apple pies;
- jams;
- fruit drinks and compotes;
- baked apples;
- various desserts.
Our ancestors had a superstition: if you eat an apple on Spas Day and make a wish, it will definitely come true. According to another version, this tradition applied only to unmarried girls.
It is also considered a good tradition to treat family members, neighbors, friends, or people in need to blessed fruit.
The holiday serves as a reminder of the importance of gratitude, compassion, and caring for others.
Apple Spas: What Is Forbidden
On this day, you must not argue or swear.
You also shouldn’t celebrate loudly.
Cleaning and doing household chores are prohibited.
The Dormition Fast, which began on August 1, is still in effect, so it is forbidden to consume dairy or meat products. However, on the Feast of the Transfiguration, the Church allows a slight relaxation of the fast, permitting wine and fish dishes to be added to the diet.
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