Saint Marina's Day 2025 — why one should bathe in the lake on this holiday.

The Ukrainian holiday on July 17 is dedicated to Saint Marina (Margaret) of Antioch, who is the patroness of women, mothers, and children. This date has deep Christian and folk roots, associated with many beliefs and traditions.

The life story of Saint Marina

Marina (Margaret) was born in Antioch into a family of a pagan priest, but she believed in Jesus Christ. Because of her faith, her family rejected her, and then threw her into prison, where she was brutally tortured. Marina's prayers saved her from a great serpent and during the tortures. She was martyred, but she became a symbol of courage and faith.

Traditions and customs of the day

Marina is considered the protector of women and children, so on this day, believers pray to her. Traditionally, they bathe in water bodies, considering the water healing. Family lunches are also organized, fish dishes are prepared, and prayers are made for harvest and well-being.

Prohibitions on Saint Marina's Day

Since ancient times, it has been deemed unacceptable to engage in heavy physical labor, quarrels, raising one's voice at children, looking at lightning, and other actions on July 17. It is advised not to plan weddings, buy expensive items, or lend money on this day.

Folk signs for this day

According to folk signs, the weather on July 17 can predict what the autumn and winter will be like. For example, thunderstorms forecast a rainy autumn and snowy winter, while sunny weather promises a good September.

Blessed Marina of Antioch is celebrated on July 17 as the patroness of women, mothers, and children. The event has Christian and folk roots, and there are traditions of prayerful memory associated with this day, as well as prohibitions on certain activities. The faith in Marina is filled with great courage and inexhaustible faith, which has significantly influenced the Ukrainian folk calendar.