Great Michaelmas Day 2025: the history of the holiday and when it is celebrated

Every year on November 21, Orthodox believers celebrate the Cathedral of Archangel Michael and All the heavenly Bodiless Forces. This holiday is dedicated to Archangel Michael, one of the main defenders in Orthodoxy. In the folk tradition, the event was called Michaelmas Day. In 2025, it falls on a Friday. Izvestia tells us what customs, traditions and prohibitions are associated with this day.

The story of St. Michael's Day: what a holiday

Archangel Michael is considered the leader of the Lord's army, the patron saint of warriors, the protector from darkness and evil, as well as the judge at the Last Judgment. On icons, he is depicted with a sword or spear, symbolizing victory over fallen spirits.

According to legend, the Lord placed Samael over the angels, who became arrogant and rebelled against Heaven. Michael led an army of angels and defeated the rebels.

In memory of this event, a church holiday was established in the 4th century. The veneration of Archangel Michael in Russia began in the 10th century. His name appeared on coins, coats of arms, and churches were built in his honor, including the Archangel Cathedral in the Moscow Kremlin.

Traditions and folk customs on November 21st

Among the people, Michaelmas was a time of preparation for winter. Houses were insulated, groceries were prepared and household chores were completed. A rich table was set for the holiday: jelly, freshly brewed beer, pickles and other dishes. The more generous the table was, the happier Archangel Michael was believed to be. Be sure to keep an eye on the weather: a clear day foreshadowed frosts, frost in the morning — a snowy winter, snowfall foreshadowed snow that would last until Easter.

What can and cannot be done on Michaelmas

Believers attended church services, lit candles and prayed to Archangel Michael for protection from enemies, diseases and evil spirits. On this day, it was forbidden to swear, slander, be discouraged and allow bad thoughts.

There were strict folk prohibitions: it was forbidden to wash your hair, cut your hair, provide selfish help, use sharp objects or engage in needlework. It is also undesirable to share dreams, so as not to bring misfortune.

Michaelmas united church traditions, folk customs and beliefs, emphasizing the spiritual significance of the holiday, respect for nature and the need to show mercy and attention to others.