Petrovdan: When the Serbian Orthodox Church Ends the Fast and Families Kick Off the Feast!
Today, July 12th, the Serbian Orthodox Church celebrates Petrovdan, a holiday dedicated to the apostles Peter and Paul, considered by Christianity as the first preachers and teachers of the new faith. But this isn’t just a religious event — Petrovdan is also the day many Orthodox families in Serbia celebrate their family patron saint day, filling homes with guests and tables with traditional dishes.
What is Petrovdan and Why Does it Matter?
Petrovdan marks the end of the apostolic, or Peter’s fast. Believers observe strict fasting during this period, and after Petrovdan, if it falls on fasting days, the fast continues “on fish” — meaning fish is allowed, but no meat or dairy. This holiday is deeply rooted in Serbian tradition and spiritual life and is celebrated across the country.
Family Feasts and Traditions
For many families, Petrovdan is the day relatives and friends gather. The family feast is a chance to socialize and preserve customs passed down through generations. Traditional dishes fill the tables, and the atmosphere is full of joy and respect for ancestors and faith.
Why Is This More Than Just a Holiday?
Petrovdan isn’t just a religious date on the calendar. It’s a symbol of unity, faith, and tradition. In times when many drift away from their roots, this holiday reminds us of the importance of preserving identity and spirituality. And if you’ve ever been to an Orthodox family feast, you know it’s a day for eating, drinking, and singing — often late into the night!
Conclusion
Petrovdan is one of those days that connect past and present, faith and tradition, family and community. If you haven’t celebrated Petrovdan yet, maybe it’s time to ask yourself — what really matters in your life? And if you have, you know it’s a day for celebration and reflection on what makes us who we are.
So, are you team fish or team meat on Petrovdan? Or maybe you have your own tradition? Drop a comment and let’s see who’s got the most creative family feast stories!
