When does Petrov’s fast begin and how many days does it last? History and essence of Petrov’s fast Traditions in Petrov’s fast How to properly prepare for fasting What can you eat during Petrov’s fast Nutrition calendar during Petrov’s fast What can and cannot be done during Petrov’s fast Petrov’ It is possible to marry and get married during the fast of
When does Peter’s fast begin and how many days does it last?
Peter’s Fast, also known as the Apostolic Fast, Pentecostal Fast, Petrine Fast, or Petrovka, leads up to the remembrance of the apostles Peter and Paul, observed on July 12. The fast is named after the practice described in the Acts of the Apostles, where the early believers fasted when they gathered in Jerusalem for Pentecost, and later continued on to the mission fields. This historical note helps explain why the tradition is called the Apostolic Fast, as explained by a priest from the Church of Metropolitan Peter of Moscow in St. Petersburg.
The start date is announced only a week ahead; the date depends on Easter, so the duration of Petrov’s fast shifts each year.
From July 1 to July 11
Orthodox believers observe Peter’s Fast in 2024
The end of the Petrine Fast always falls on July 12, the day dedicated to the apostles Peter and Paul. Hence the name Petrov. If Easter is delayed, the fast can stretch a few days longer, up to about ten days; if Easter comes early, the fast may extend to six weeks, according to a priest.
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According to the church calendar, Peter’s Day does not count as part of the fast, but if the holiday falls on a Wednesday or Friday, fasting is observed with some leniency—foods with butter, fish, and wine may be allowed. In 2024, Peter’s Day falls on Friday, July 12.
History and essence of Peter’s Fast
The Peter’s Fast is first mentioned in the Apostolic writings by Hippolytus in the 3rd century. Initially it was called the Pentecostal fast and was intended for believers unable to observe Lent due to health issues or pregnancy. Over time, as the feast of Peter and Paul gained prominence, the fast acquired its current name.
Its roots go back to the church’s early years, with formal observances starting in the 4th century (324) in Constantinople and Rome, during the construction of churches honoring the holy apostles Peter and Paul under the leadership of Constantine the Great. The dedication of Constantinople’s temple on the feast day of the apostles, June 29 (old style), or July 12 (new style), cemented this day as a solemn period for believers. The fast’s purpose is to prepare for the feast of the holy apostles, who themselves fasted before going out to preach Christianity to the world.
Fasting serves not only physical cleansing but also spiritual purification. The aim is to reduce harmful desires and to focus more on prayer and good deeds, as believers seek harmony with God. The final week before Peter’s Lent is Trinity Week, during which Wednesdays and Fridays are not fast days. The Sunday that marks the Lent of Peter is All Saints’ Sunday, seen as an auspicious moment for spiritual renewal.
Petrov’s traditions are fast
The Apostolic Fast is viewed as a time for repentance, prayer, and devotion. During this period, believers attend church, participate in services, and emphasize prayer, contrition, and restraint. Meat, dairy, eggs, and alcohol are limited or avoided in many fasting practices.
Historically, the fast was also connected to agricultural life, with hard work such as mowing and hay gathering taking place in the summer. People sought divine strength for labor and refrained from idleness. While modern life has changed, the spirit of diligence and discipline remains a central theme during this time.
How to prepare correctly for fasting
One or two weeks before the start, the body should be eased into the fast to protect health. The idea is to transition gently rather than shock the system. The fasting period should be approached with a calm and gradual shift, rather than abrupt deprivation.
You enter and exit the fast gradually. Abstinence during this season benefits both soul and body, since a daily diet without meat is now possible for many. Life without fasting feels unusual, and the body is naturally equipped for periods of abstinence. Preparation should include a reduction in meat and dairy products, an emphasis on greens, vegetables, and fruits, and increased water intake to ease digestion and minimize discomfort.
- eat less meat and dairy
- prioritize greens, vegetables, and fruits
- drink more water to support digestion
What can you eat during St. Peter’s Fast?
Compared with Lent, Petrov’s fast is somewhat less strict about food. The core rule is to avoid meat and dairy products; fish is permitted in many traditions. In earlier times, peasants faced hardship during the fast as the preceding harvest ran low, yet fresh milk and eggs were available from livestock. Modern practice tends to focus on plant-based foods with occasional fish, avoiding dairy and meat where possible.
Petrovsky fast diet calendar
Mondays: hot foods without vegetable oil are allowed, including soups, cereals, potatoes, or pasta.
Tuesdays: light relaxation permitted. Mushrooms, fish, and hot dishes cooked with vegetable oil are allowed.
Wednesdays: dry foods only. Bread, nuts, dried fruits, berries, fruits, and vegetables in their natural form, plus salads without dressing.
Thursdays: hot meals with vegetable oil and fish are allowed.
Fridays: dry eating continues.
Saturdays and Sundays: hot dishes with fish and vegetable oils are permitted. Small amounts of wine are acceptable.
During fasting, the key is not merely to limit food but to maintain balance. If health prevents full fasting, it is possible to seek blessings and prayers to support endurance.
- pregnant individuals
- lactating mothers
- minors
- persons with serious medical conditions
- military personnel
- those engaged in heavy labor
What you can and can’t do on Peter’s Fast
Fasting involves more than diet. It centers on inner purity and spiritual discipline. The church does not prescribe rigid prohibitions, but followers often choose to honor certain traditions and practices during the period.
During Petrov’s Fast, adherents may:
- reduce or quit harmful habits, avoid excessive alcohol, and limit late-night distractions
- attend church services, seek confession, or receive communion if appropriate
- prefer quiet, reflection, and fewer social celebrations
Popular beliefs suggest avoiding haircuts during Lent, with the idea that cutting hair could bring hardship. Borrowing or lending money is discouraged, and some avoid crafts and sewing. As the feast of Peter and Paul approaches, cleaning and organizing the home is common to prepare for the holiday.
Is it possible to get married during St. Peter’s Fast?
Marriage ceremonies at registry offices are not prohibited, but church guidance often recommends postponing such celebrations. The faith emphasizes that weddings during this season may face difficulties or outcomes that later feel unhappy. Hence, many priests advise planning weddings before or after the fast. In some contexts, newlyweds are advised not to wed during Peter’s Fast.
“Weddings are not held during Lent. A wedding should always be planned before or after the fast,” the guidance concludes.