Feast of Peter and Paul 2025: when is it celebrated and what are the traditions and signs

The Day of Remembrance of the two most prominent disciples of Jesus Christ, Peter and Paul, is considered one of the greatest religious holidays. On this day, Christians gather for festive services to honour the power of the apostolic ministry and their spiritual feat.

The Feast of Peter and Paul traditionally comes after the end of the Peter’s Fast. This period of spiritual purification begins a week after the Holy Trinity.

Peter and Paul’s Day – the history of the holiday

Saint Peter (real name: Simon) was a disciple and close associate of Christ. He is considered to be the first bishop of Rome, that is, the first pope. Peter preached in Judea and later in Rome. According to legend, he was crucified upside down in about 64 by order of Emperor Nero.

He became a zealous apostle to the Gentiles after his miraculous conversion. He had previously persecuted Christians.
His letters to the early Christians became the basis of Christian theology. Paul was also martyred in the Roman capital, probably the same year as Peter. He was beheaded.

In the first centuries of Christianity, the feast of Peter and Paul was already established. According to church legends, they were executed in Rome on 29 June. This date became the day of honouring their memory. In the fifth century, this holiday was already widely celebrated in the Christian world.

Feast of Peter and Paul 2025 – when is it celebrated in Ukraine

On 1 September 2023, the Orthodox Church of Ukraine and the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church officially switched to the New Julian calendar, which is closer to the Gregorian calendar. As a result of the reform, most church holidays have received new dates – they have moved 13 days earlier than in the old style.

The Day of the Holy Apostles Peter and Paul used to be celebrated on 12 July. From now on, this holiday falls on 29 June. On this day in 2025, Ukrainian Christians will honour the memory of the two great apostles.

Peter’s Lent 2025: what are its traditions

Peter’s Lent in 2025 lasted from 16 to 28 June. It has a variable duration, as it depends on the date of Easter. In 2025, it lasted 13 days.

Compared to the Easter fast, Petrivka is considered milder – believers are allowed to eat fish, vegetable food and seafood, except on Wednesdays and Fridays, when stricter restrictions are in place.

Traditions on Peter and Paul

In Ukraine, festive liturgies are held on Peter and Paul in honour of the apostles, as they are considered to be those who help spread the teachings of the Church of Christ. Believers pray for strengthening of faith, protection from evil and spiritual endurance.

Many believers are motivated by the completion of the Peter’s Fast of confession and Holy Communion. It is considered a spiritual renewal before summer.

In certain regions, this day is remembered for deceased relatives by lighting candles and praying for their souls.

Ukrainians prepare a generous meal with fish, pies, and honey delicacies. The festive table is a manifestation of gratitude to God for the summer gifts.

It was on this day that people in most regions of Ukraine began to mow hay and harvest crops, especially rye. The Apostle Peter was considered the patron saint of farmers.

Earlier, we talked about the traditions, customs and superstitions of Lazarus Saturday and Palm Sunday.