How Many Days Until the Feast of the Annunciation?
The Feast of the Annunciation 2026 is celebrated on Wednesday, March 25, 2026.
About the Feast of the Annunciation
The Feast of the Annunciation, traditionally celebrated on March 25th, commemorates the pivotal moment when the Angel Gabriel appeared to the Virgin Mary to announce that she had been chosen by God to conceive and bear his Son, Jesus Christ. This event marks the Incarnation, the moment God became flesh. The date is exactly nine months before Christmas (December 25th).
The Angel's Visit (Luke 1:26-38)
The Gospel of Luke provides the detailed account of the Annunciation:
Gabriel's Greeting
The Angel Gabriel was sent by God to Nazareth, to a virgin named Mary. He greeted her, "Hail, full of grace! The Lord is with you." Mary was troubled by this greeting.
The Announcement
Gabriel reassured Mary, telling her she had found favor with God and would conceive and bear a son, whom she was to name Jesus. He would be great, called Son of the Most High, and inherit the throne of David.
Mary's Question
Mary asked, "How can this be, since I have no husband?" She questioned the means, not the possibility, demonstrating faith.
The Explanation & Sign
Gabriel explained the conception would be through the Holy Spirit. He also gave a sign: her relative Elizabeth, though old, had conceived a son. "For nothing will be impossible for God."
Mary's Fiat ("Let it be")
Mary responded with complete faith and obedience: "Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word." At this moment, the Incarnation occurred.
Theological Significance
The Annunciation is a cornerstone event in Christian theology:
- The Incarnation: It marks the moment God the Son took on human flesh in Mary's womb, the beginning of Jesus' earthly existence.
- Mary's "Fiat": Her free acceptance ("Let it be") is crucial. It represents humanity's cooperation with God's plan of salvation.
- Fulfillment of Prophecy: It fulfills Old Testament prophecies about the Messiah's birth (e.g., Isaiah 7:14 - "the virgin shall conceive").
- Beginning of the New Covenant: The event initiates the new relationship between God and humanity established through Jesus Christ.
- Model of Faith and Obedience: Mary's response serves as a perfect example of faith, humility, and obedience to God's will.
- Joyful Mystery: It is the first Joyful Mystery of the Rosary.
How the Feast is Observed
Solemnity / Feast Day
It is ranked as a Solemnity in the Catholic Church and a major Feast Day in Orthodox and Anglican traditions, celebrated with special liturgies.
Scripture Readings
Readings focus on Luke's account of the Annunciation, often paired with Old Testament prophecies (like Isaiah 7) and passages about God's promises.
Liturgical Color: White
Symbolizing joy, purity, light, and the divine nature of the event – the Incarnation of Christ.
The Angelus Prayer
This traditional prayer, often recited daily, directly recalls the Annunciation narrative. Its recitation is particularly encouraged on this feast.
Liturgical Placement
If March 25 falls during Holy Week or Easter Week, the celebration is usually transferred to the Monday after the Second Sunday of Easter (Divine Mercy Sunday).
Cultural Traditions
In some cultures, it's associated with the beginning of spring or specific Marian devotions.