February for Christians, particularly in Roman Catholic and liturgical traditions, is dedicated to the Holy Family and marks the transition from Ordinary Time to the penitential season of Lent. Key observances include Candlemas (Feb 2), the beginning of Lent with Ash Wednesday (Feb 18, 2026), and numerous feast days for saints.
Key February Christian Observances & Feast Days (2026)
Month of the Holy Family: February is traditionally dedicated to Jesus, Mary, and Joseph, emphasizing family virtues.
- February 2: Presentation of the Lord / Candlemas / World Day for Consecrated Life: Celebrates the presentation of Jesus in the Temple and Mary's purification. Candles are blessed, symbolizing Christ as the "Light of Revelation".
- February 3: St. Blaise Day (Blessing of the Throats): Commemoration of St. Blaise of Sebaste, often marked by the blessing of throats.
- February 11: Our Lady of Lourdes / World Day of the Sick: Feast Day celebrating the apparition of Mary in Lourdes, France.
- February 17: Seven Founders of the Servite Order: Feast Day.
- February 18: Ash Wednesday (2026): Marks the start of Lent, a 40-day period (excluding Sundays) of fasting, prayer, and penance leading to Easter.
- On Ash Wednesday – The day encourages a "turn away from sin and be faithful to the gospel".
- Catholics attend Mass to receive ashes, which symbolize mortality, repentance, and a commitment to follow the Gospel. It serves as a public sign of humility and repentance.
- Catholics aged 18-59 are required to fast (one full meal and two smaller meals that do not equal a full meal).
- Catholics aged 14 and older are required to abstain from eating meat on Ash Wednesday and all Fridays during Lent.
- All Fridays during Lent – Catholics are to abstain from eating meat.
- On Ash Wednesday – The day encourages a "turn away from sin and be faithful to the gospel".
- February 22: Chair of St. Peter: A feast day celebrating the authority of the Pope.
- February 23: St. Polycarp: Feast Day of the bishop and martyr.
