White Week prepares the faithful for Lent, prohibiting the consumption of meat and promoting prayer.

White Week, held between February 16 and 22, 2026, precedes the beginning of the Great Lent for Easter, which starts on February 23. This week serves as a transition, preparing the faithful both in terms of food and spiritually. In the tradition of the Romanian Orthodox Church, White Week is a stage of 'softening' the fast, during which the consumption of meat is prohibited. Allowed foods include dairy products, eggs, fish, oil, and vegetables. Starting from February 23, dairy products are also eliminated. Additionally, on Wednesdays and Fridays, the Holy Liturgy is not celebrated, as these are non-liturgical days. This period is dedicated not only to nutrition but also to intensifying prayer and spiritual cleansing. The Lent for Easter will end on April 11, and Orthodox Easter will be celebrated on April 12, 2026. In comparison, the Catholic fast begins on March 2 and ends on April 4, with Catholic Easter on April 5.