The Christian year
When is Ash Wednesday?
In 2026, Ash Wednesday falls on Wednesday, February 18, 2026. In 2027 it is on Wednesday, February 10, 2027.
Ash Wednesday dates, 2026 to 2035
| Year | Date |
|---|---|
| 2026 | Wednesday, February 18, 2026 |
| 2027 | Wednesday, February 10, 2027 |
| 2028 | Wednesday, March 1, 2028 |
| 2029 | Wednesday, February 14, 2029 |
| 2030 | Wednesday, March 6, 2030 |
| 2031 | Wednesday, February 26, 2031 |
| 2032 | Wednesday, February 11, 2032 |
| 2033 | Wednesday, March 2, 2033 |
| 2034 | Wednesday, February 22, 2034 |
| 2035 | Wednesday, February 7, 2035 |
What is Ash Wednesday?
Ash Wednesday begins Lent, the forty days before Easter. Ashes on the forehead are an ancient sign of repentance and of our mortality, remember that thou art dust, and the day calls us to turn from sin and return to God with the whole heart.
In the Word
And rend your heart, and not your garments, and turn unto the LORD your God: for he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness, and repenteth him of the evil.Joel 2:13 (KJV)
How it is observed
Many Christians receive ashes and begin a season of prayer, fasting, and giving that leads to Easter.
Observed across many traditions; the ashes are a sign of humility, not a requirement of Scripture.
Keep the day with The Living Bread
Read the Scripture, pray, and gather the family of God as Ash Wednesday draws near. The Living Bread is a free, ad-free home for prayer, the Word, and Christian community.
Get the appThe whole Christian yearRelated: Lent · Repentance · The 2026 calendar