Advent vs the Orthodox Nativity Fast: What’s the Difference?

By Amanda Harrison, PGD RN HWC — Mediterranean Diet Specialist

Stunning stained glass windows depicting biblical scenes illuminate the serene interior of a historic church, enhancing its peaceful and spiritual ambiance.

As Christmas approaches, Christians around the World enter a season of preparation. But depending on one’s tradition, that preparation can look very different. In the West—among Roman Catholics, many Protestants, and some Anglicans—the season is known as Advent. In the Eastern Orthodox Church, it is the Nativity Fast, sometimes called Advent as well, but practiced in a distinctly different way.

Although both seasons point toward the same joyful event, the birth of Jesus Christ, they differ in length, purpose, and spiritual expression. Understanding these differences can deepen appreciation for the richness of Christian tradition.

I felt it an interesting comparison as whilst I have personally been focusing on the traditional Mediterranean Nativity Fast, many around me have been observing the more Western Advent.

1. Length and Timing

Advent (Western Christian Tradition)

• Begins four Sundays before Christmas.

• Length varies slightly each year (usually 22–28 days).

• Ends on the evening of December 24.

  
  

Nativity Fast (Eastern Orthodox Tradition)

• Begins much earlier: November 15.

• Lasts a fixed 40 days, mirroring the length of other Orthodox fasts (such as Great Lent).

• Concludes after the Divine Liturgy on Christmas Eve (January 6 for those following the Julian Calendar; December 25 for those on the Revised Julian/Gregorian Calendar).

  
  

2. Spiritual Focus

Advent

Advent is structured around hope, expectation, and preparation—not only for Christ’s birth, but also His second coming.

Each week traditionally highlights a theme:

1. Hope

2. Peace

3. Joy

4. Love

   
   

The tone is anticipatory rather than ascetical. Many churches use:

• Advent wreaths

• Purple or blue liturgical colours

• Scripture readings focusing on prophecy and the coming Messiah

  
  

Nativity Fast

The Orthodox Nativity Fast is primarily an ascetical season, emphasising:

• Repentance

• Self denial

• Increased prayer

• Almsgiving

  
  

Its purpose is to purify the heart, so that the faithful can more fully experience the mystery of the Incarnation. Liturgical readings gradually shift from Old Testament prophecies to Gospel narratives that build toward Christmas.

3. Fasting and Food Practices

Advent

• In most Western traditions, no mandatory fasting exists today.

• Historically, Advent was once a stricter fast, but this practice faded in the Middle Ages.

• Some individuals or communities adopt optional sacrifices, for example, giving up sweets or taking on service commitments.

  
  

Nativity Fast

• Has specific fasting guidelines:

  • No meat or dairy

  • Limited fish, wine, and oil depending on the day

  • Gradual tightening of the fast as Christmas approaches

    
    

While rules vary slightly by jurisdiction, the overall pattern resembles a lighter version of Great Lent which leads up to the Easter celebration.

4. Liturgical Differences

Advent

• Includes special Masses or services emphasising waiting and preparation.

• The “O Antiphons” (December 17–23) are a highlight in Catholic and some Anglican traditions.

• Music tends to be subdued—Christmas carols are often saved for Christmas itself

  
  

Nativity Fast

• Services incorporate Old Testament readings about the Messiah.

• Feasts such as:

  • The Entry of the Theotokos (Nov 21)

  • St. Nicholas (Dec 6 / Dec 19 Julian )provide spiritual encouragement during the fast.

    
    

Hymns focus on the Incarnation, the journey to Bethlehem, and the fulfilment of prophecy.

5. Cultural Expressions

Advent

• Advent calendars and wreaths

• Community service projects

• Special children’s programs

• A gradual build up toward Christmas festivities

  
  

Nativity Fast

• More subdued outwardly—festivities are generally reserved until after the Liturgy of Christmas.

• In some cultures, for example Slavic and Middle Eastern, elaborate Christmas feasts break the fast.

• Emphasis on quiet spiritual preparation, confession, and increased church attendance.

  
  

6. The Heart of Both Seasons

Despite the differences, Advent and the Nativity Fast share a common purpose which is to prepare the believer to meet Christ—humbly, joyfully, and with a renewed heart.

Advent does this through anticipation and contemplation, while the Nativity Fast approaches preparation through asceticism and repentance. But in both cases, the season calls Christians to slow down, turn inward, and remember the astonishing mystery of God entering the World as a child.

Conclusion

The diversity of Christian practice around Christmas reflects the richness of the faith’s heritage. Whether through lighting the candles of an Advent wreath or keeping a 40-day fast, Christians Worldwide are united in longing for the same miracle: “Christ is born! Glorify Him!”