February 25 - Alexei Rybny: traditions, customs, folk omens

According to the folk calendar, February 25 is celebrated Alexei Rybny, or Alexeyev Day. This name is due to the fact that usually in the last days of winter the snow begins to melt and fish bites well. In addition, in the old days on this day it was customary to cook fish dishes. In 2025, the holiday falls on Tuesday. What customs and omens are associated with it - tell "Izvestia".

The history of Alexey Rybny, celebrated on February 25

The holiday owes its name primarily to St. Alexis, Metropolitan of Kiev, Moscow and All Russia, whom the Church honors on February 25. Alexis (in the world Eleutherius) lived in the XIV century in Moscow. He was born into the family of the boyar Theodore Byakont, and, according to legend, even as a child he learned of his high destiny.

In his youth the saint accepted monasticism, serving for more than 20 years in the Moscow Epiphany Monastery. In 1354 he was elected Metropolitan of Moscow and All Russia. During the minority of Prince Dimitri Donskoy, Alexis was the de facto ruler of Russia. He contributed to the rise of Moscow as the center of national unification of the Russian lands, the construction of the stone Moscow Kremlin and the successful struggle against the Horde yoke.

During the years of his ministry, the saint often traveled and became famous for many miracles. For example, it is known when he healed the blind wife of the Khan of the Golden Horde, after which he canceled the campaign against Moscow. This story was the basis of the movie directed by Andrei Proshkin "The Horde", released in 2012.

The Metropolitan died on February 25 (February 12, O.S.), 1378, two years before the Battle of Kulikovo. The relics of the saint are in the Patriarchal Epiphany Cathedral in Moscow.

How to celebrate Alexei Rybny - 2025

In the people, the day of the memory of St. Alexis was called Alexei Rybny. On this day men went fishing. And women did chores around the house and cooked dishes from fresh fish. Caught fish was shared with the infirm and those who could not go to the river.

Fish rastegai were a traditional treat on the holiday. They were served hot as an independent dish. Before serving, a little hot broth with chopped herbs was poured into the middle. Often some small object was put inside. The one who got a piece with a surprise, expected a good year.

Also on Alexei's day they prepared for future crops. In order for the grain to sprout well in the spring, it was left in the frost. Our ancestors believed that in this way the seeds would harden and give a good harvest. Yarn was also taken outside. It was believed that after that it would be easier to weave, and the cloth would turn out beautiful and even.

Dreams had a special meaning. In the olden days it was believed that on the night of February 25th dreams were dreamed, which could contain clues about the future. Therefore, they tried to memorize and interpret them.

What you can and can not do on Alexei Day

With the holiday is associated with a lot of proverbs and superstitions. Since ancient times, this time is considered successful for fishermen. Therefore, following the folk tradition, you can go fishing or surprise your loved ones with some original dish of fish or seafood.

It is better not to start new business on this day. According to beliefs, they will be unsuccessful. Also do not plan long trips - the way will be difficult or there will be trouble on the way. It is also not recommended to wear shabby things, as they can attract old problems.

Folk omens for February 25

According to the omens of the day determined the weather. According to long-term observations, if the snow melts on Alexei Rybnyi, there will be a good catch. A lot of stars in the sky - to a rich harvest. A blizzard or fog portends a rainy summer, and a frosty day - a warm March.

We also observed the behavior of animals and birds. For example, if no sparrows were heard, it signaled snowy weather. And friendly chirping sparrows - to thaw.

Earlier in February, Zakhar Serpovidets was celebrated. "Izvestia" told about the signs of this day.