Overview
- In Western Christianity, Lent runs from Ash Wednesday on February 18 to Holy Thursday on April 2, followed by Good Friday on April 3 and Easter Sunday on April 5.
- Eastern Orthodox Great Lent follows the Julian calendar, beginning February 23 and concluding April 11 in 2026.
- Ash Wednesday marks the start of the season with the traditional imposition of ashes, and the 46 calendar days include six Sundays that are not counted in the 40 fasting days.
- Catholic guidelines call for one full meal plus two smaller meals on fast days and no meat on Fridays, with fasting for ages 18–59 and abstinence from meat from age 14.
- Observance varies by denomination, with many choosing to give something up or add prayer and service, while some groups such as Baptists and many Evangelicals typically do not follow Lenten rituals.