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Ash Wednesday falls on Wednesday, February 10, 2027. That is 106 days away.

Ash Wednesday is the first day of Lent, a season of reflection and preparation observed by many Christian churches. It is marked around the world, and in the United States too, by Catholics, Episcopalians, Lutherans, Methodists and members of other traditions.

The best-known part of the day is the ashes. During a service, a minister or priest marks each person's forehead with ash, usually in the shape of a cross. The words spoken often recall that people come from dust and return to dust. Many churches make the ashes by burning palm branches saved from the previous year's Palm Sunday services.

Because the mark stays on through the day, Ash Wednesday is one of the few times a religious practice shows up plainly at offices, schools and grocery stores. Coworkers who have never discussed faith may suddenly notice one another. Some churches offer short services early in the morning or at lunchtime so people can attend around work.

For Catholics, the day is also one of fasting and abstinence from meat, and many other Christians choose some form of simpler eating or a personal discipline for the weeks of Lent. People often decide on that commitment, whether giving something up or taking something on, at the start of the season.

The ash itself is fine, soft and gray, and it smudges easily, which is why many people leave it in place until evening rather than wiping it away.

Ways to celebrate

• Attend an Ash Wednesday service at a local church if you observe the day.
• Learn how different Christian traditions observe the start of Lent.
• Choose a quiet personal practice to carry through the coming weeks.
• Respond kindly if you notice someone wearing ashes today.

Dates

All national days on February 10

Also on February 10

• National Cream Cheese Brownie Day
• National Umbrella Day

Categories: Religious days