Lent 2026 begins on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, marking the start of one of Christianity’s most sacred seasons. Lent in 2026 will continue through early spring, preparing millions of Christians across the United States for Easter Sunday on April 5, 2026.
If you’re asking when is Lent 2026, the confirmed and official answer is that it starts on February 18, 2026 (Ash Wednesday) and concludes on April 2, 2026 (Holy Thursday evening), leading directly into the Easter Triduum and Resurrection celebrations.
Below is a complete, accurate guide to Lent 2026 for U.S. readers, including key dates, meaning, and what to expect during the season.
Table of Contents
What Is Lent?
Lent is a 40-day season of prayer, fasting, and reflection observed by many Christian denominations. It prepares believers for Easter, which celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
The season reflects the 40 days Jesus spent fasting in the wilderness. During Lent, Christians focus on spiritual growth, repentance, and acts of charity.
In churches throughout the United States, Lent is marked by special services, prayer gatherings, Scripture readings, and traditional fasting practices.
When Is Lent 2026? Start and End Dates
Here are the official dates for Lent 2026 in the United States:
- Ash Wednesday (Start of Lent): February 18, 2026
- Holy Thursday (End of Lent season): April 2, 2026 (evening)
- Good Friday: April 3, 2026
- Easter Sunday: April 5, 2026
Although Lent formally ends on Holy Thursday evening, many Christians continue their spiritual practices through Holy Saturday, April 4, 2026.
Why Does Lent Change Every Year?
Lent does not have a fixed calendar date because it depends on Easter.
Easter is celebrated on the first Sunday after the first full moon following the spring equinox. Because the moon cycle changes each year, Easter shifts annually. As a result, Ash Wednesday and the entire Lenten season also move.
For 2026, Easter falls on April 5, which places Ash Wednesday on February 18.
Important Dates During Lent 2026
Here’s a clear breakdown of key observances during the Lenten season:
Pre-Lent Observance
- Shrove Tuesday (Mardi Gras): February 17, 2026
This is the day before Ash Wednesday. Many people enjoy festive meals before the fasting season begins.
Major Lenten Milestones
| Observance | Date | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Ash Wednesday | Feb. 18, 2026 | Official start of Lent |
| First Sunday of Lent | Feb. 22, 2026 | First Sunday within the Lenten season |
| Palm Sunday | Mar. 29, 2026 | Begins Holy Week |
| Holy Thursday | Apr. 2, 2026 | Concludes Lent season |
| Good Friday | Apr. 3, 2026 | Commemorates crucifixion |
| Holy Saturday | Apr. 4, 2026 | Easter Vigil |
| Easter Sunday | Apr. 5, 2026 | Resurrection celebration |
These dates are observed nationwide across Catholic, Protestant, and Orthodox communities (though Orthodox Easter may follow a different calendar).
Ash Wednesday 2026: What Happens?
Ash Wednesday falls on February 18, 2026.
On this day, churchgoers receive ashes on their foreheads in the shape of a cross. The ashes symbolize repentance and human mortality. Many churches in the U.S. offer multiple services throughout the day to accommodate work schedules.
Fasting and abstinence are traditionally observed on Ash Wednesday.
How Long Is Lent in 2026?
Lent is commonly described as 40 days, but the full calendar span is longer.
From February 18 to April 2, there are 46 days. However, Sundays are not counted as fasting days. Each Sunday is considered a mini celebration of the Resurrection.
That is why Lent is known as a 40-day season even though it stretches across 46 calendar days.
Common Lenten Practices in the U.S.
Lent is observed in different ways across denominations, but several traditions remain consistent:
1. Fasting
Many Christians fast on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday. Some choose to limit meals or avoid certain foods.
2. Friday Abstinence
Avoiding meat on Fridays during Lent remains a common practice in Catholic communities across the U.S.
3. Giving Something Up
People often give up a favorite food, habit, or activity as a form of spiritual discipline.
4. Taking Something On
Others add daily prayer, Bible reading, volunteering, or acts of kindness.
5. Almsgiving
Charitable donations and community service increase during the Lenten season.
Holy Week 2026
The final week of Lent is known as Holy Week. It begins on Palm Sunday, March 29, 2026.
Holy Week includes:
- Palm Sunday
- Holy Thursday
- Good Friday
- Holy Saturday
This period reflects the final days of Jesus’ life leading to the crucifixion and resurrection.
Holy Thursday marks the conclusion of Lent and the beginning of the Easter Triduum, the most sacred three-day period in the Christian calendar.
Who Observes Lent?
Lent is primarily observed by:
- Roman Catholics
- Many Protestant denominations
- Anglican and Episcopal churches
- Some Lutheran and Methodist communities
Eastern Orthodox Christians observe a similar fasting season, though dates may differ due to calendar calculations.
In the United States, tens of millions participate in Lenten traditions each year.
How Americans Prepare for Lent 2026
As February 18, 2026 approaches, churches across the United States are already rolling out their plans for the Lenten season. In addition to announcing Ash Wednesday service schedules, many congregations are offering Lenten study programs that explore Scripture, prayer practices, and spiritual themes tied to the 40-day journey.
To deepen engagement, numerous parishes are organizing community outreach events, including food drives, support for local shelters, and volunteer opportunities designed to reflect the season’s call to compassion and service. In many places, confession times are scheduled well in advance to help individuals prepare their hearts and minds, especially within Catholic and liturgical traditions where this sacrament is emphasized during Lent.
Charity campaigns are also scheduled earlier than in past years in response to growing needs; some churches partner with nonprofits to amplify impact and encourage congregants to give not only money but time and care. Youth ministries and family groups are introducing interactive Lenten calendars and challenge programs so that young people can participate in spiritual reflection in age-appropriate ways.
Church calendars for 2026 already reflect these confirmed dates, and preparations generally begin several weeks before Ash Wednesday so that members have time to plan how they will participate. From virtual retreats to small-group discussions, the focus this year continues to be on intentional spiritual growth, shared community support, and meaningful reflection throughout the Lenten season.
The Spiritual Meaning of Lent
Lent invites believers to pause and reflect.
The season encourages repentance, gratitude, and spiritual discipline. Many Christians describe Lent as a reset — a time to refocus on faith and personal growth.
Rather than simply giving something up, many leaders encourage participants to grow in compassion, forgiveness, and generosity.
Quick Reference: When Is Lent 2026?
If you need a fast answer:
- Lent 2026 starts: February 18, 2026
- Lent 2026 ends: April 2, 2026 (evening)
- Easter 2026: April 5, 2026
These dates are final and confirmed on the Christian liturgical calendar for 2026.
Lent 2026 offers a meaningful season of reflection and renewal for millions across the United States. Whether you observe through fasting, prayer, or acts of service, the 40-day journey leads to one of Christianity’s most joyful celebrations.
How do you plan to observe Lent 2026? Share your thoughts and traditions in the comments below.
