Today is the Feast of the Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary: Traditions and Taboos of the Holiday
25 March 08:54
On March 25, Orthodox Christians celebrate one of the most important church holidays—the Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary. This day commemorates the event when the Archangel Gabriel announced to the Virgin Mary the birth of Jesus Christ.
The holiday has deep spiritual significance, as well as many folk traditions, superstitions, and taboos that believers try to observe, reports "Komersant Ukrainian"
As a reminder, starting September 1, 2023, the Orthodox Church of Ukraine (OCU/UOC) and the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church (UGCC) switched to the New Julian church calendar, and now all non-movable feasts with fixed dates are celebrated 13 days earlier.
What does the Feast of the Annunciation signify?
According to biblical tradition, it was on this day that the Virgin Mary received the good news of the future birth of the Savior of humanity. That is why the holiday is called the Annunciation—meaning “good news.”
On this day, solemn services are held in churches, and believers pray for the health, peace, and well-being of their families.
The symbols of the Annunciation are:
- white lilies (a symbol of purity);
- white doves (a symbol of the Holy Spirit);
- blue clothing (a symbol of spirituality and purity).
Traditions of the Annunciation
In folk tradition, this day is considered special and filled with spiritual power.
Main traditions of the holiday:
- attending church and praying;
- blessing of water;
- praying for health and well-being;
- helping loved ones;
- doing good deeds.
In ancient times, there was a custom of releasing doves after the service. It was believed that the birds carried people’s prayers to the angels.
What Not to Do on the Annunciation
Since the holiday falls during Great Lent, there are certain restrictions.
On this day, it is not recommended to:
- perform heavy physical labor;
- clean or do household chores;
- sewing or knitting;
- work in the garden;
- pruning trees;
- borrow money or items;
- argue and swear;
- get married or have a wedding;
- for women—to cut or dye their hair.
Believers also try to spend this day in peace, prayer, and good thoughts.
What You Can Eat on the Annunciation
Since Lent is in progress, believers refrain from:
- meat;
- dairy products;
- eggs;
- pastries;
- alcohol;
- fast food.
At the same time, some traditions allow for some leniency in fasting.
Folk traditions on the Feast of the Annunciation
Our ancestors closely observed the weather on this day and made predictions for the future.
The most common signs:
- if there is snow on the ground, the cold will last another month;
- a warm night means a warm spring;
- rain means a good harvest;
- sunny weather — a hot summer;
- a cold wind means a cool summer;
- If the swallows haven’t arrived, spring will be cold.
Who celebrates their name day on March 25
On this day, the following people celebrate their name day:
Maria, Joseph, Sava, Vasyl, Gavrilo, Ustym, and Theodosius.
