Ash Wednesday 2026: Start of Lent Falls on Feb. 18 (ET)
Ash Wednesday falls on Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2026 (ET), marking the formal start of the 40-day Lenten season for many Christian traditions. The day sets a tone of reflection, fasting and spiritual preparation that culminates with Holy Week and Easter on April 5, 2026 (ET).
When Ash Wednesday occurs and the Lent calendar
In 2026, Ash Wednesday arrives on Feb. 18 (ET), beginning Lent, the six-week season of prayer and penitence observed by a range of Christian communities. Lent traditionally spans 40 days of fasting and reflection, not counting Sundays, and in 2026 it runs through Holy Thursday on April 2 (ET). Good Friday follows on April 3 (ET), and Easter Sunday is April 5 (ET).
The dates change each year because they are tied to the date of Easter, which in turn is determined by lunar and ecclesiastical calculations. For Eastern Orthodox churches, the timetable differs; Great Lent starts on Clean Monday and follows a separate calendar, so Ash Wednesday is not observed in the same way across all Christian traditions.
Who observes Ash Wednesday and what the day entails
Ash Wednesday is most commonly associated with Roman Catholic practice, but numerous Protestant denominations—including many Lutheran, Anglican, Methodist and Presbyterian congregations—also mark the day. Observance ranges from formal Masses or services to informal gatherings where ashes are placed on foreheads in the shape of a cross.
The practice of using ashes has ancient roots: it echoes older customs of donning sackcloth and dusting oneself with ashes as signs of repentance. The ritual of marking foreheads with ashes has been a visible symbol of penitence in the Western church since the medieval period, with institutional traces dating back centuries.
Obligations vary by tradition. In many Catholic communities, adults between 18 and 59 are expected to fast on Ash Wednesday, often limiting intake to one full meal and two smaller meals that together do not equal a full meal. Abstaining from meat is commonly observed on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday. Younger children, older adults and those exempt for medical reasons follow adapted practices based on individual circumstances and pastoral guidance.
Practical guidance and common customs for Ash Wednesday 2026
The day before Ash Wednesday—Feb. 17, 2026 (ET)—is known by several names, including Shrove Tuesday and Mardi Gras, and has long been associated with last-day indulgences before the Lenten fast begins. Many congregations hold services on Ash Wednesday that include Bible readings, prayers and the imposition of ashes. Those who choose to receive ashes typically have them placed on the forehead in the shape of a cross while brief words such as "Remember that you are dust" or "Repent and believe" are spoken.
For those planning to attend services, it helps to check local parish schedules for exact service times and any additional Lenten programming. Many churches offer midweek services, study groups and volunteer opportunities throughout the season to encourage deeper spiritual focus. People observing Lent often choose specific acts of fasting, almsgiving or other disciplines like giving up particular foods or habits and increasing prayer or charitable activity.
While Ash Wednesday is most directly tied to Christian liturgical life, the themes of reflection, restraint and service resonate beyond church walls. Whether observed in a crowded sanctuary, a quiet chapel or even in private devotion, Ash Wednesday 2026 invites individuals and communities to begin a season of intentional spiritual renewal ahead of Holy Week and Easter.
