Nativity of the Theotokos
Nativity of the Most Holy Theotokos — Tuesday, September 8, 2026 in 2026.
The birth of the Virgin Mary to Joachim and Anna. It is the first Great Feast of the liturgical year, which begins on 1 September.
When is Nativity of the Theotokos in 2026?
In 2026 the feast falls on Tuesday, September 8, 2026. It is a fixed feast and keeps the same date every year on the New Calendar; Old Calendar parishes keep it thirteen days later on the civil calendar.
| Year | Date | Fasting that day |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | Tuesday, September 8, 2026 | No Fast |
| 2027 | Wednesday, September 8, 2027 | Fast |
| 2028 | Friday, September 8, 2028 | Fast |
| 2029 | Saturday, September 8, 2029 | No Fast |
Fasting on Nativity of the Theotokos
A Great Feast: fish, wine and oil are permitted even on a Wednesday or Friday.
Fasting practice varies between jurisdictions, parishes and households — see the Orthodox fasting rules for the full picture and speak with your priest about your own rule.
See this feast in the calendar
Open the day itself for the saints, feast and fasting rule in full, browse September 2026, or see the whole of 2026.