Orthodox Good Friday
2025Friday, April 18
Quick Facts
- Date
- Friday, April 18, 2025
- Observed in
- Bulgaria, Cyprus, Georgia, Greece, Montenegro +5 more
- Type
- Religious Holiday
What is Orthodox Good Friday?
Orthodox Good Friday, known as Great Friday or Holy Friday, is the most solemn day in the Orthodox Christian calendar. It commemorates the crucifixion and death of Jesus Christ at Calvary. The day is observed with strict fasting, prayer services, and the veneration of the Epitaphios (burial shroud of Christ).
When is Orthodox Good Friday 2025?
Orthodox Good Friday is on Friday, April 18 in 2025. Check the dates and days for other years in the table below.
History & Origin
The observance of Good Friday dates to the earliest Christian communities. The Orthodox Church maintains ancient liturgical traditions, including the Royal Hours, the Vespers of the Deposition from the Cross, and the Matins of Holy Saturday with the Lamentations. These services have been preserved for centuries with minimal changes.
How It's Celebrated
Orthodox Good Friday is marked by solemn services and traditions. The church is decorated in dark purple or black. The Royal Hours are read in the morning, followed by Vespers in the afternoon when the Epitaphios is carried in procession. Evening brings the Matins with Lamentations sung around the Epitaphios. Strict fasting is observed—no food at all for the devout.
Where It's Observed
Orthodox Good Friday is a public holiday in 9 countries. In 2025, it falls on Friday, April 18.
Fun Facts
- Many Orthodox faithful observe a complete fast on Good Friday, abstaining from all food and drink until Saturday.
- The Epitaphios is an embroidered cloth depicting Christ's body prepared for burial, carried in procession through the streets.
- In some Greek communities, the Epitaphios procession passes under people's doorways to bring blessing to homes.
- Orthodox Good Friday services can last many hours, with some faithful remaining in church throughout the day and night.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Orthodox Good Friday on a different date?
Orthodox Good Friday follows Orthodox Easter, which is calculated using the Julian calendar. This typically places it 1-5 weeks after Western Good Friday.
What is the Epitaphios?
The Epitaphios is an embroidered cloth icon depicting Christ's body prepared for burial. It is venerated and carried in procession on Good Friday evening.
What is the proper fasting for Orthodox Good Friday?
The strictest fast is observed—no food at all. Those who cannot fast completely abstain from meat, dairy, oil, and wine.
Travel Inspiration
Planning a trip around Orthodox Good Friday? Explore our travel guides for destinations where this holiday is celebrated.
