Saint Catherine's Day
November 25, Tuesday
History and origin
Saint Catherine lived in the 3rd–4th centuries in Alexandria and was known for her learning, beauty, and spiritual resilience. She actively preached Christianity and opposed pagan idols, for which she was executed. In the Middle Ages, her cult spread throughout Europe, and the celebration on November 25 became a symbol of honoring wisdom, education, and maidenly purity.
Holiday traditions
Saint Catherine's Day is observed in different ways in various countries. Main traditions include:
• prayers and church visits in honor of Saint Catherine
• blessing of young women and female students
• performing folk rituals related to predicting brides’ futures
• organizing fairs, exhibitions, and cultural events dedicated to education and crafts
• in some regions — festive dinners and gatherings of families and student communities
Significance of the holiday
The holiday emphasizes spiritual and cultural values, as well as the role of education and wisdom in human life. It symbolizes:
• veneration of saints and Christian cultural traditions
• respect for knowledge, learning, and education
• blessings for young women and students for happiness and success
• preservation of folk rituals and cultural heritage
Interesting facts
• In some countries, Saint Catherine's Day is closely linked to Saint Nicholas Day, when young people receive gifts and symbolic tokens of luck.
• Saint Catherine is often depicted with a sword and a wheel — symbols of her martyrdom and steadfastness in faith.
• Educational institutions and universities in Europe traditionally hold lectures, exhibitions, and contests dedicated to science and crafts on this day.
Saint Catherine's Day in other years
- 2021 November 25, Thursday
- 2022 November 25, Friday
- 2023 November 25, Saturday
- 2024 November 25, Monday
- 2026 November 25, Wednesday