The 12 Great Feasts

Welcome to our blog page dedicated to the Twelve Great Feasts of the Eastern Orthodox Church—a sacred rhythm of celebration that frames the life of Christ and the Theotokos throughout the liturgical year. Each feast is a window into the mystery of our salvation, offering rich theological meaning, timeless beauty, and deep spiritual nourishment. Here, you’ll find reflections, historical context, iconographic symbolism, and practical ways to enter more fully into the life of each feast day. Whether you are new to the faith or seeking to deepen your journey, this page will guide you through the sacred calendar and draw your heart closer to the mystery of Christ’s Incarnation, Passion, and Resurrection.

The 12 Great Feasts of the Orthodox Christian liturgical calendar, starting from September 8, are:

1. Nativity of the Theotokos (September 8)

• Celebrates the birth of the Virgin Mary, the Mother of God.

2. Exaltation of the Holy Cross (September 14)

• Commemorates the discovery of the Cross of Christ by St. Helen and its exaltation.

3. Entrance of the Theotokos into the Temple (November 21)

• Marks the dedication of the Virgin Mary to God by her parents, Joachim and Anna.

4. Nativity of Christ (December 25)

• The feast of the birth of Jesus Christ, the Son of God.

5. Theophany (January 6)

• Celebrates the baptism of Jesus Christ in the Jordan River and the manifestation of the Holy Trinity.

6. Meeting of the Lord in the Temple (February 2)

• Commemorates the presentation of Jesus as an infant in the Temple by His parents.

7. Annunciation to the Theotokos (March 25)

• Celebrates the announcement by the Archangel Gabriel to the Virgin Mary that she would bear the Son of God.

8. Palm Sunday (The Sunday before Pascha)

• Commemorates Jesus' triumphant entry into Jerusalem.

9. Ascension of the Lord (40 days after Pascha)

• Celebrates Christ's bodily Ascension into heaven.

10. Pentecost (50 days after Pascha)

• Commemorates the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the Apostles and the birth of the Church.

11. Transfiguration of the Lord (August 6)

• Celebrates the revelation of Christ's divine glory to His disciples on Mount Tabor.

12. Dormition of the Theotokos (August 15)

• Commemorates the falling asleep and assumption of the Virgin Mary into heaven.