Orthodox Holy Week 2027 begins on Palm Sunday, April 25, and ends on Holy Saturday, May 1. Pascha (Orthodox Easter) falls on Sunday, May 2, 2027.
These dates follow the Gregorian calendar as used in the United States. They are five weeks later than Western Easter, which falls on March 28, 2027, according to the Farmers’ Almanac Easter 2027 guide.
Orthodox Holy Week 2027 Dates at a Glance
| Day | Date | Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Lazarus Saturday | April 24 | Christ raises Lazarus |
| Palm Sunday | April 25 | Entry into Jerusalem |
| Holy Monday | April 26 | The barren fig tree; Joseph |
| Holy Tuesday | April 27 | Parables of readiness |
| Holy Wednesday | April 28 | Anointing; Judas’s betrayal |
| Holy Thursday | April 29 | Last Supper; Passion Gospels |
| Good Friday | April 30 | Crucifixion and burial |
| Holy Saturday | May 1 | Christ’s descent to Hades |
| Pascha | May 2 | The Resurrection |
Lazarus Saturday technically sits just outside Holy Week. Most parishes treat it as the doorway into it.
How Many Orthodox Christians Will Observe It?
The Pew Research Center estimates about 260 million Orthodox Christians worldwide, roughly 12% of all Christians. Most live in Russia, Ukraine, Romania, Greece, Ethiopia, and Serbia, with growing communities across the United States.
Day-by-Day Orthodox Holy Week 2027 Calendar
Palm Sunday (April 25)
Palm Sunday commemorates Christ’s entry into Jerusalem. Parishes distribute palms or pussy willow branches, and the Bridegroom Matins service begins that evening.
The fast eases slightly. Fish, wine, and oil are traditionally permitted.
Holy Monday (April 26)
Services recall Joseph of the Old Testament and the cursing of the barren fig tree. Both point to the need for spiritual fruitfulness.
Bridegroom Matins is sung again, usually in the evening. The hymn “Behold, the Bridegroom Comes at Midnight” is the central theme.
Holy Tuesday (April 27)
The readings focus on the parables of the Ten Virgins and the Talents. They call the faithful to stay watchful.
The evening service includes the well-known Hymn of Kassiani in many parishes.
Holy Wednesday (April 28)
The Church remembers the woman who anointed Christ and Judas’s agreement to betray Him. Many parishes also hold the Sacrament of Holy Unction on this day.
Unction is offered for healing of body and soul, and all faithful are welcome to receive it.
Holy Thursday (April 29)
The morning Divine Liturgy of St. Basil commemorates the Mystical Supper. Many Orthodox Christians receive Communion on this day.
That evening, parishes serve the Twelve Passion Gospels. Candles burn throughout, and a cross is carried to the center of the church.
Good Friday (April 30)
Good Friday is the strictest day of the week. Many Orthodox Christians keep a total fast or eat only minimal, simple foods.
Services include the Royal Hours and the Vespers of the Descent from the Cross. In the evening, the faithful gather for Lamentations at the tomb, the Epitaphios, which is decorated with flowers.
Holy Saturday (May 1)
The morning Vesperal Liturgy of St. Basil celebrates Christ’s victory over death. Clergy change from dark to bright vestments, and the congregation often scatters bay leaves or flower petals.
Pascha services begin late that night, and the Midnight Office precedes them in many parishes.
Pascha (May 2)
At midnight, the church lights go dark, and the priest brings out the Paschal flame. The congregation sings “Christ is Risen!” and answers “Truly He is Risen!”
Divine Liturgy follows the midnight service, and the fast ends with a shared meal. Many parishes also serve Agape Vespers on Sunday afternoon, where the Gospel is read in several languages.
What Are the Fasting Rules for Orthodox Holy Week 2027?
Holy Week continues Great Lent, which begins on Clean Monday, March 15, 2027. The standard Lenten fast excludes meat, dairy, and eggs. Wine and oil are generally limited to weekends and certain feast days.
Fish is traditionally allowed twice during Lent. The first is Annunciation (March 25, 2027), and the second is Palm Sunday. Fasting practice varies by jurisdiction and individual spiritual guidance, so ask your priest before making changes for health reasons.
How to Prepare for Orthodox Holy Week 2027
- Confirm service times. Parish schedules differ, so check your church’s website or call the office.
- Plan for late nights. The Pascha service often begins before midnight and can last until 2:00 a.m.
- Bring candles. Most parishes provide them, but some ask you to bring your own.
- Prepare the Paschal basket. Many families bring eggs, bread, and lamb or other foods to be blessed.
- Take time off if possible. Services run nearly every evening, and Holy Thursday and Good Friday may also have daytime liturgies.
Also see: Holy Week 2027 Calendar
FAQs: Orthodox Holy Week 2027
When is Orthodox Easter 2027?
Sunday, May 2, 2027.
When does Orthodox Holy Week start in 2027?
Palm Sunday, April 25, 2027. Many churches also begin observances on Lazarus Saturday, April 24.
Is Orthodox Good Friday a public holiday?
It is a public holiday in several countries, including Greece, Cyprus, Romania, and Serbia. It is not a federal holiday in the United States, but many parishes schedule services so working families can attend.
Do Orthodox and Western Easter ever match?
Yes. They coincided in 2025 and will again on April 16, 2028. In 2027, they are five weeks apart.
Where can I find authoritative Orthodox calendars?
Check the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America and the Orthodox Church in America for official liturgical calendars, and confirm local service times with your parish.
Related:
Orthodox Bright Monday 2027: Date, Meaning & Traditions
Orthodox Good Friday 2027: Date, Start Time & Holy Week Schedule