Russians Observe Medovyi Spas with Religious Traditions

On August 14, Orthodox believers celebrate Medoviy Spas.

Consensus

The Medovyi Spas is observed on August 14 by Orthodox Christians in Russia.
The holiday marks the beginning of the Uspenky (Assumption) fasting period.
It is customary to bring honey to church for blessing and to refrain from eating meat, dairy, and eggs during the fast.
Work in the garden is discouraged on this day.
The holiday is associated with the veneration of the Life-Giving Cross of Christ.
Church services include the procession of the cross and special hymns honoring Christ's crucifixion.
It is considered a day for helping others and sharing food, especially blessed honey.

The Medovyi Spas is also known as the First Spas and is linked to the baptism of Rus in 988. — gazeta_spb
There is a belief that if swallows fly away on August 14, winter will come early. — gazeta_spb
Killing a bee on this day is considered a mortal sin. — gazeta_spb
It is forbidden to argue with beekeepers, as bees are believed to hear insults and retaliate. — gazeta_spb
The holiday is associated with collecting medicinal herbs and bathing pets. — gazeta_spb
The Medovyi Spas is not officially recognized in the church calendar, but was a folk observance. — vm
The holiday originated in Constantinople, where the relic of the True Cross was paraded through the streets on August 14. — vm
The holiday is also known as 'Mokry Spas' or 'Makovye' in folk tradition. — vm