Orthodox Nativity Fast begins on 15 November, with 14 days when fish is permitted

The Nativity Fast will begin this year on Sunday, 15 November. During the 40 days of preparation for Christmas, Orthodox Christians will have 14 days when fish is permitted, according to the Church calendar.

Throughout this period, the Church encourages the faithful to intensify their prayers, attend religious services and perform acts of charity, combining dietary abstinence with care for their neighbours.

The Nativity Fast, also known as the Christmas Fast, is one of the four major fasting periods of the Orthodox liturgical year and represents a time of spiritual preparation for the feast of the Nativity of our Saviour Jesus Christ.

The final day of fasting is 24 December, Christmas Eve, when the faithful prepare to celebrate the Nativity of the Lord.

Days when fish is permitted in 2026 The Nativity Fast is less strict in terms of dietary restrictions than Great Lent, with Church regulations allowing fish on several days.

According to the Orthodox calendar for 2026, these are:

November: 21, 22, 23, 28, 29 and 30. December: 1, 3, 5, 6, 7, 12, 13 and 19.

The first day when fish is permitted is 21 November, when the Orthodox Church celebrates the Entrance of…