Ash Wednesday — 26 February

Observed 46 days before Easter, Ash Wednesday is considered to be the beginning of Lent in Christianity. Oftentimes, during this period, different groups of Christians cease to use certain comforts or make a similar resolution to give something up or do something special for the period of Lent. This year Ash Wednesday falls on February 26. It is thought to be a day in which observant Christians show penance.