Trusted by UK Christians since 2002

Faith-aligned holidays, retreats & pilgrimages

Serving over 2 million Christians in the UK

Back to the calendar
Ordinary Time

Nativity of the Theotokos

Also called: Birth of the Virgin Mary, Η Γέννηση της Παναγίας (Greek), Рождество Богородицы

September 8 (fixed)

Eastern OrthodoxCatholic

The first of the Twelve Great Feasts in the Orthodox church calendar year (which begins September 1), celebrating the birth of the Virgin Mary to her elderly parents Joachim and Anna (known from the Protoevangelium of James). atholic tradition, this feast (September 8) is also the feast of Our Lady of Loreto (Italy) and of several patronal shrines.

The birth of Mary is seen as the beginning of the fulfillment of God's plan of salvation. It usually falls on or around September 8 (fixed).

It is especially important in Eastern Orthodox, Catholic traditions. Browse Christian holidays — browse options on Eden.

At a glance

Type
feast
Date type
Fixed (same date every year)
Regions
Global
Themes
Mary
Liturgical colour
White

Common questions

Nativity of the Theotokos is observed on September 8 (fixed). Moveable feasts shift each year; fixed feasts stay on the same calendar date.