Green Monday, also known as Ash Monday, Clean Monday, or Pure Monday, is the first day of Great Lent for Eastern Catholics and Eastern Orthodox.
This holiday marks both the beginning of a religious season that culminates in Easter Sunday and the beginning of spring.
This feast day is a public holiday, and it is celebrated in Cyprus and Greece with picnics, eating traditional food, and flying kites.
Traditional food includes olives, octopus, and shrimp. A unique type of unleavened bread called “lagana” is prepared and baked only on Green Monday. The bread has an ancient history, dating back to the Old Testament.
It’s a day to relax outdoors, socialize with family, friends and neighbours, and eat fresh food. Meat, dairy, and eggs are traditionally not eaten on Green Monday nor are they eaten for 40 days of lent.
Municipalities typically organise free events with singing, dancing, traditional games, and free food.
This year, Green Monday is celebrated on March 7.
Happy Green Monday and Blessed Lent!
