Lent 2020: What is Lent? Do people fast for Lent? Meaning behind Lent

The start date of Lent moves from year-to-year and is determined by Easter, as it is celebrated exactly 46 days before Easter Sunday.

The six Sundays before Easter are omitted from the 40-day fasting period.

The date can vary from as early as February 4 to as late as March 10.

The day is observed mainly in English-speaking countries, especially in Ireland, the UK, Australia, New Zealand, Canada and the USA.