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Ordinary Time
Beheading of St. John the Baptist
Also called: The Decapitation of John the Forerunner, Усекновение главы (Russian)
August 29 (fixed)
Eastern OrthodoxCatholic
The remembrance of the beheading of John the Baptist at the request of Salome (Matthew 14:1–12, Mark 6:14–29). ).
This is a day of strict fasting in the Orthodox tradition — no oil, wine, or circular-shaped foods (to avoid any appearance of representing a head on a plate). It usually falls on or around August 29 (fixed).
It is especially important in Eastern Orthodox, Catholic traditions. Explore pilgrimage holidays — browse options on Eden.
At a glance
- Type
- major feast
- Date type
- Fixed (same date every year)
- Regions
- Global
- Themes
- Saints & Martyrs, Life of Christ
- Liturgical colour
- Red
Common questions
Beheading of St. John the Baptist is observed on August 29 (fixed). Moveable feasts shift each year; fixed feasts stay on the same calendar date.
The remembrance of the beheading of John the Baptist at the request of Salome (Matthew 14:1–12, Mark 6:14–29). This is a day of strict fasting in the Orthodox tradition — no oil, wine, or circular-shaped foods (to avoid any appearance of representing a head on a plate). A memorial of repentance and sobriety.
It is associated with Eastern Orthodox, Catholic. It falls in the Apostles Fast End, Ordinary Time season of the liturgical year.
Related holidays
- All Saints' DayNovember 1Read guide
- Nativity of St. John the BaptistJune 24 (exactly six months before Christmas; Luke 1:26 sets Gabriel's visit to Mary six months after Elizabeth's conception)Read guide
- Transfiguration of the LordAugust 6 (fixed)Read guide
- Exaltation of the Holy CrossSeptember 14 (fixed)Read guide