The conspiracy before the Christmas Fast: what kind of day is this and how to spend it properly?

The prayer before the Nativity Fast is a special day in the Orthodox tradition, marking the transition from short—term joys to a 40-day fast. It is a time of spiritual and physical preparation for the great feast of the Nativity of Christ, filled with prayer, traditions and customs. For more information on how to spend this day properly, see the Izvestia article.

The conspiracy: What kind of day is this

Sunday is the last day before the start of the Christmas Fast, which historically dates back to the fourth century, when the fast lasted a week before Christmas. The modern 40-day fast rule was established in 1166 under Patriarch Luke of Constantinople. The day of the conspiracy coincides with the memory of St. Philip the Apostle, who is called the patron saint of this period, therefore this day is often called Philippov, or popularly simply: "Philippovka".

On this day, the last lavish table with meat and dairy dishes is arranged, which symbolizes farewell to carnal pleasures and a mood for deep repentance and spiritual purification. The spell is accompanied by family meetings, pardons, and prayers to help prepare for the upcoming fast.

When does the Christmas Fast start in 2025

In 2025, the Nativity Fast begins on November 28 and will last 40 days until the evening service on January 6, 2026, Christmas Eve. It symbolizes the 40-day fast of Jesus Christ in the desert, described in the Gospels. After his baptism, Jesus, led by the Holy Spirit, went into the desert, where he spent 40 days and nights in prayer and abstinence from food. This feat was a test of the Savior's spiritual and physical strength before beginning his public ministry. During this time, Jesus struggled with the temptations of the devil, enduring three major trials that demonstrated his unshakeable faith and obedience to God.

The 40-day fast of Christ became a model for believers — a period of repentance, prayer and self-restraint aimed at spiritual purification and strengthening of the will. During the Christmas Fast, the consumption of meat, dairy products and eggs is prohibited, with the exception of fish, which is allowed to be eaten on Saturdays, Sundays and during festive services.

What can and cannot be done on the day of the conspiracy

On the day of the fast, believers are allowed to eat fast food, including meat, fish, dairy products and eggs — the last time before a long period of fasting. However, the church and folk tradition advise avoiding excesses: do not overeat, do not arrange noisy parties and control alcohol consumption.

Not only physical preparation is important, but also spiritual: prayer serves as a moment for inner repentance, restoring order in thoughts, and reconciliation with loved ones. It is recommended to attend divine services, pray and try to cleanse the soul from insults and sins.

After sunset, strict restrictions begin to apply: during the fast, meat, dairy products and eggs are prohibited, and fish is allowed only on certain days. In addition, fasting implies giving up entertainment and focusing on prayer, good deeds and spiritual growth. This approach helps to tune in to inner repentance and spiritual rebirth, making the adoption of fasting not only a bodily, but also a spiritual feat.