Orthodox Pentecost in Ukraine

The Feast of Triytsya (Trinity Sunday) celebrates the Christian belief of Holy Spirit’s descent on the apostles. In Ukrainian it is also known as Pyatydesyatnytsya and in English it is known as Whitsunday, or Pentecost.

Is Orthodox Pentecost a Public Holiday?

Orthodox Pentecost is a public holiday. It is a day off for the general population, and schools and most businesses are closed.

In 2020, it falls on a Sunday, and some businesses may choose to follow Sunday opening hours.

What Do People Do?

Many churches in Ukraine are busy with special services on Triytsya. It is also known as “Green Sunday” and some people decorate their homes with Calamus (type of herb) and branches. Some people leave food on graves when visiting cemeteries to honor dead relatives or friends. Various forms of public entertainment, including those with skomorokhs (clowns), take place on this day.

Public Life

Triytsya is a public holiday in Ukraine so many businesses, as well as government offices and educational institutions, are closed.

Background

The date of the Feast of Triytsya in Ukraine is set in accordance with the Orthodox Christian Church’s calendar. Many Orthodox churches base their Easter date on the Julian calendar, which differs from the Gregorian calendar used in many western countries. Whitsunday, or Whit Sunday, is celebrated among many Christians worldwide.

Symbols

The symbols of Pentecost are those of the Holy Spirit and include flames, wind, the breath of God and a dove.

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