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Orthodox Meatfare Sunday

Feast to your heart's delight this Orthodox Meatfare Sunday! The last day for meat before Lent, make it a savory one to remember.

Sunday

March 2027

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEOrthodox Meatfare Sunday (Orthodox Easter − 56)

OBSERVED INInternationally

CATEGORYReligion

SUBCATEGORYChristian

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Mark your calendars for a delicious celebration on Orthodox Meatfare Sunday this March 10! This day serves as the grand culinary send-off for meat before the forty days of Lenten fasting observed in the Orthodox Christian faith. Its roots are deeply grounded in centuries-old tradition, embracing feasting and reflection before the solemn period of abstinence. Featuring a richly laden table with all your favorite meat dishes, this day is more than a meal - it's a beautifully robust observance of faith and commitment. So, prepare your grills and skillets, and get ready for a sizzling, flavor-packed commemoration!

TIMELINE

Orthodox Meatfare Sunday Timeline

Great Schism

The Great Schism between the Eastern and Western Churches solidifies the separate Orthodox Christian practices, including fasting traditions and the celebration of Meatfare Sunday.

Meatfare Sunday Customs

In the 1800s, local traditions for Meatfare Sunday become more established, including lavish meals featuring a variety of meats.

Russian Orthodox Church

With the restoration of the Russian patriarchate, Meatfare Sunday observances start to become more uniform within Russian Orthodoxy after years of upheaval.

Growth of Orthodox Christianity

Orthodox Christianity experiences worldwide growth in the early 21st century, leading to increased recognition and observance of Meatfare Sunday.

Global Celebration

Orthodox Meatfare Sunday is celebrated by millions worldwide, with feasts and gatherings playing a central role in cultural and religious observance.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Orthodox Meatfare Sunday

Host a cookout

Gather friends and family together for one last epic barbeque before Lent begins. Grill all your meaty favorites and enjoy a feast al fresco, weather permitting of course.

TRY

Try a new meat recipe

Celebrate Orthodox Meatfare Sunday by challenging your culinary skills with a new meat recipe. Expand your culinary horizon by exploring dishes from different cuisines around the world.

DINE

Dine at a steakhouse

Treat yourself to a meal at your favorite steakhouse or try a new one. Order your favorite cut of meat and savor every bite.

PREPARE

Prepare a roast dinner

Comfort food at its best, a succulent roast dinner is perfect for Orthodox Meatfare Sunday. Whether you opt for chicken, beef, pork, or lamb, pair it with tasty sides for a wholesome feast.

CREATE

Create a meat lover's pizza

Put a fun twist on the occasion and make a homemade pizza loaded with different types of meat. It could be a meat-lover’s delight with pepperoni, sausage, ham, and bacon. Don't forget to share slices with those you love!

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why Orthodox Meatfare Sunday is Important

It's a Chance for Culinary Creativity

This day challenges our culinary skills by offering the chance to try a new meat recipe or explore dishes from different cuisines. From preparing a sumptuous roast dinner to crafting a meat lover's pizza, Orthodox Meatfare Sunday is not just a day to eat but also a day to create and share.

It's a Feast of Favorites

Orthodox Meatfare Sunday is the perfect excuse to enjoy all of our favorite meat dishes one last time before Lent begins. From barbecues with family and friends to sampling new recipes or feasting at a steakhouse, it's a day of culinary delight and indulgence. No meaty dish is off-limits!

It Marks a Time of Reflection and Tradition

Beyond being a day of indulgence, Orthodox Meatfare Sunday holds deep significance in the Orthodox Christian faith. It signals the beginning of Lent—a time of fasting, prayer, and reflection. This day serves as a robust observance of faith and commitment, grounding us in centuries-old tradition and deep reflection.