Lent in 2026 begins on Ash Wednesday, February 18, and concludes on Holy Thursday, April 2, just before the start of the Easter Triduum. This sacred season prepares Catholics and other Christians for the celebration of Easter through prayer, fasting, almsgiving, and repentance.
Lent is one of the most important seasons of the liturgical year, inviting believers to slow down, turn away from sin, and renew their relationship with God as they journey toward the Resurrection.
Key Dates for Lent 2026
- Ash Wednesday: February 18, 2026
- First Sunday of Lent: February 22, 2026
- Palm Sunday: March 29, 2026
- Holy Thursday: April 2, 2026
- Good Friday: April 3, 2026
- Easter Sunday: April 5, 2026
Although Lent is often referred to as a 40-day season, it actually spans 46 calendar days, because Sundays are not counted as days of fasting.
What Is Lent?
Lent is a 40-day season of preparation for Easter, modeled after Jesus’ 40 days of fasting and prayer in the desert. During this time, the Church calls Catholics to deeper conversion through three traditional spiritual practices:
- Prayer – growing closer to God
- Fasting – learning self-discipline and reliance on God
- Almsgiving – serving and caring for others
Lent is not meant to be gloomy or punishing. Instead, it is a season of healing, freedom, and spiritual renewal.
Why Does Lent Begin on Ash Wednesday?
Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of Lent and falls on February 18 in 2026. On this day, Catholics receive ashes on their foreheads as a sign of repentance and humility. The priest or minister says one of two phrases:
- “Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return.”
- “Repent, and believe in the Gospel.”
The ashes remind us of our need for God’s mercy and our desire to begin again.
Why Does the Date of Lent Change Every Year?
Lent’s date changes each year because it is tied to the date of Easter, which is calculated as the first Sunday after the first full moon following the spring equinox.
Since Easter moves on the calendar, Ash Wednesday—and therefore Lent—also moves. In 2026, Easter falls on April 5, placing Ash Wednesday on February 18.
How Long Is Lent?
Lent lasts 40 days, reflecting the 40 days Jesus spent fasting in the desert. However, when counting the days from Ash Wednesday to Easter, the total comes to 46 days.
Why the difference?
- Sundays are not counted as days of Lent because every Sunday is a celebration of the Resurrection.
- Removing the six Sundays leaves the traditional 40-day observance.
What Are Catholics Required to Do During Lent?
Catholics are called to observe Lent through both obligations and personal commitments.
Required Practices
- Fasting on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday (for Catholics ages 18–59)
- Abstinence from meat on Fridays during Lent (for Catholics age 14 and older)
Encouraged Practices
- Giving up a habit or comfort that distracts from God
- Adding daily prayer, Scripture reading, or spiritual study
- Practicing generosity through almsgiving or service
Lent is not about “giving something up” for its own sake, but about making room for God.
Does Lent End on Easter Sunday?
No. Lent ends on Holy Thursday evening, when the Easter Triduum begins.
The Triduum includes:
- Holy Thursday (Mass of the Lord’s Supper)
- Good Friday (Commemoration of the Lord’s Passion)
- Holy Saturday (Easter Vigil)
Easter Sunday marks the joyful celebration of the Resurrection, which begins the Easter season, lasting 50 days.
Why Is Lent Important for Catholics?
Lent matters because it calls Catholics to conversion of heart. It is a time to confront sin honestly, receive God’s mercy, and grow in holiness.
Through Lent, the Church reminds us:
- We need God’s grace
- Repentance leads to freedom
- The Cross leads to Resurrection
Lent prepares us not only to celebrate Easter—but to live as resurrected people year-round.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lent 2026
Q: When does Lent start in 2026?
A: Lent begins on Ash Wednesday, February 18, 2026.
Q: When does Lent end in 2026?
A: Lent ends on Holy Thursday, April 2, 2026, before the evening Mass of the Lord’s Supper.
Q: How long is Lent in 2026?
A: Lent is 40 days, not counting Sundays, though it spans 46 calendar days.
Q: Is Ash Wednesday a holy day of obligation?
A: No, Ash Wednesday is not a holy day of obligation, but Catholics are strongly encouraged to attend Mass.
Q: Are Sundays part of Lent?
A: Sundays fall within the Lenten season but are not counted as days of fasting or penance.
Q: What is the purpose of Lent?
A: Lent prepares Catholics for Easter through prayer, fasting, repentance, and charity.
Preparing for Lent 2026
As Lent approaches in 2026, the Church invites each of us to reflect:
What is God calling me to let go of? And how is He inviting me to grow?
By embracing Lent with intention, humility, and hope, we allow God to transform our hearts—and lead us more fully into the joy of Easter.
Additional Resources
Q&A with Fr. Mike: Lent & Holy Week
40 Simple Lenten Sacrifices That Will Change Your Life
20 Unique Things to Give Up for Lent
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