The first day of February has long been considered happy and successful. In folk tradition, it was believed that it was on this day that the foundation of family well-being and harmony for the whole year is laid. In Ukraine, February 1 combines church traditions, folk customs and international events, some of which have survived to this day.
What church holiday is today?
According to the new church calendar, Orthodox believers honor the memory of the early Christian martyr Saint Tryphon. They pray to him for protection from the evil eye, evil forces and diseases, as well as for the preservation of the harvest from pests. The people considered Saint Tryphon the patron saint of married couples, so on this day they especially often prayed for a happy marriage and family harmony. February 1 is also considered the eve of the great Christian holiday - the Meeting of the Lord.
According to the old church style, on this day the Venerable Macarius of Egypt, the hermit Macarius of Kyiv-Pechersk, and Saint Lawrence of Chernihiv are honored.
What holiday is today in Ukraine?
There are no official public holidays on February 1 in Ukraine. At the same time, this date is associated with important events in the country's history. In 1655, the Battle of Okhmatov between the Zaporozhian Army and the Crimean Khanate ended. In 1991, the Ukrainian SSR abolished discriminatory restrictions on the registration of Crimean Tatars in Crimea. In 2024, Ukrainian intelligence reported the destruction of the Russian military boat "Ivanovets".
What holiday is it in the world today?
The world celebrates International Dessert Day on February 1st, an unofficial but popular holiday among sweet tooths. On this day, it is customary to treat yourself to your favorite sweets or try new desserts. Also, different countries celebrate Robinson Crusoe Day, Hijab Day, Read Aloud Day, Chewing Gum Day, and Toxic Relationships Rejection Day.
What is the national holiday today?
In the folk calendar, February 1 was considered an auspicious day for couples and weddings. There was a custom according to which a husband and wife had to make a promise to each other and fulfill it as soon as possible - it was believed that this would strengthen the marriage. Folk signs on this day were often associated with the weather and the arrival of spring. If water dripped from the roofs, they expected an early spring. A large number of stars at night foreshadowed a long winter. Thunder on this day was considered a harbinger of a gloomy March, and snow - to a rainy spring.
What not to do today
Despite the fact that the day was considered lucky, there were also prohibitions. Spouses were advised not to quarrel, as this could bring discord in the relationship for the whole year. It was also not recommended to use sharp objects and leave them on the table. People believed that complaints, self-pity and negative thoughts on this day only increase troubles.

