When is Dmitrievskaya Parents' Saturday in 2026: what can and cannot be donetranslated

Dmitrievskaya Parental Saturday is a special day of remembrance of the dead, established by the Orthodox Church. It is associated with the name of the Holy Great Martyr Demetrius of Thessaloniki and is always celebrated on the Saturday before his memorial day on November 8. In 2026, Dmitrievskaya Parents' Saturday falls on November 7th. We talk about the traditions, prohibitions and signs of this holiday.

Who is Demetrius of Thessaloniki (Demetrius of Thessaloniki)

Dmitry was born into a noble Roman family in the city of Thessaloniki (present-day Greece). His father was proconsul, and Dmitry inherited this position from him. At that time, the Roman Empire actively persecuted Christians, but Dmitry, himself a secret Christian, openly preached faith in Christ and defended Christians.

When Emperor Maximilian found out about his religion, Dmitry was arrested and imprisoned. There he continued to preach and support Christians. According to legend, he was visited in prison by the young man Nestor, whom Dmitry blessed to fight with the emperor’s favorite gladiator. With the help of the blessing, Nestor won the victory. Enraged, the emperor ordered the execution of both Nestor and Dmitry. Dmitry accepted martyrdom, pierced by spears.

After it...