Denmark, a nation rich in history and cultural significance, holds its public holidays in special regard. Understanding these holidays can provide a more immersive experience for foreigners residing in Denmark. By recognizing the importance of each day and how they are observed, one can gain a deeper appreciation for the Danish way of life.
For newcomers, acquainting oneself with these holidays is also practical. From knowing when shops might be closed to understanding the significance of certain national traditions, a basic knowledge of Danish public holidays can make daily life smoother and more enjoyable.
In the sections to follow, we’ll journey through the calendar year, exploring the public holidays in Denmark, their origins, and their significance. Whether you’re seeking to understand the festive spirit during ‘Jul’ (Christmas) or the reflection during ‘Påske’ (Easter), this guide will serve as your companion to the public holidays of Denmark.
Key Takeaways
- Denmark’s public holidays are deeply rooted in history and cultural traditions.
- Workplaces in Denmark observe public holidays with specific legal and cultural norms.
- Daily routines, including shopping and transportation, shift during these holidays.
- For foreigners, public holidays offer a unique window into the Danish way of life.
- Participating and understanding local traditions can make the experience richer for expatriates.
The List of Public Holidays in Denmark
Navigating a year in Denmark means encountering a range of public holidays that are uniquely Danish, as well as those shared with much of the Western world. These days, deeply rooted in history, tradition, and faith, paint a vivid picture of the nation’s values and celebrations.
Here are the public holidays that you’ll come across in Denmark:
| Holiday Name | Dates (2024) | Significance |
| New Year’s Day (Nytår) | January 1 | Celebrates the beginning of the new year. |
| Maundy Thursday (Skærtorsdag) | April 6 | Christian holiday commemorating the Last Supper. |
| Good Friday (Langfredag) | April 7 | Observes the crucifixion of Jesus. |
| Easter Sunday (Påskedag) | April 9 | Celebrates the resurrection of Jesus. |
| Easter Monday (Anden påskedag) | April 10 | Continuation of Easter celebrations. |
| General Prayer Day (Store bededag) | May 12 | Day for general prayers and services. |
| Ascension Day (Kristi himmelfartsdag) | May 18 | Marks the ascension of Jesus to heaven. |
| Whit Sunday (Pinsedag) | May 28 | Celebrates the descent of the Holy Spirit on the apostles. |
| Whit Monday (Anden pinsedag) | May 29 | Continuation of Whit Sunday celebrations. |
| Constitution Day (Grundlovsdag) | June 5 | Commemorates the signing of the Danish Constitution. |
| Christmas Eve (Juleaften) | December 24 | Pre-celebration for Christmas, often with family gatherings and feasts. |
| Christmas Day (Juledag) | December 25 | Celebrates the birth of Jesus. |
| Second Day of Christmas (Anden juledag) | December 26 | Continuation of Christmas celebrations. |
Note: The dates mentioned are for 2024 and may vary in subsequent years, especially for movable holidays.
A Deeper Dive into Selected Holidays
Denmark’s public holidays are not just dates on a calendar; they carry with them stories, traditions, and practices that have been cultivated over centuries. While every holiday has its importance, we’ll delve deeper into a select few to provide a more comprehensive understanding of their significance and how they are celebrated in the Danish context.
Easter (Påske)
Easter, known as ‘Påske’ in Danish, is a pivotal Christian holiday celebrated globally, and Denmark is no exception. It is an occasion marked by both somber reflection and joyous celebration.
Historical Significance: The core of Påske revolves around the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ. It begins with Good Friday, a day of somber reflection on Jesus’ crucifixion. This is followed by Easter Sunday, a joyous occasion celebrating his resurrection.
How It’s Celebrated: Danes often spend Easter with family, indulging in traditional meals that might include lamb, eggs, and herring. ‘Påskeæg’, or Easter eggs, often made of chocolate, are a popular treat for both children and adults. Additionally, it’s a tradition in Denmark for children to send ‘gækkebreve’, teaser letters, where they craft intricate paper-cut designs and send them to friends and family with a small verse, hoping for a chocolate egg in return.
General Prayer Day (Store bededag)
General Prayer Day, known as ‘Store bededag’, stands out as a particularly Danish holiday. Unlike many other holidays, it doesn’t have a fixed date but is observed on the fourth Friday after Easter.
Origin: Instituted in the 18th century by King Christian V, the day combined several minor or local Roman Catholic holidays that were scattered throughout the spring. It became a day for general prayers and services.
Current Day Observance: Today, many Danes see it as a welcome day off in spring, even if they don’t participate in any religious activities. A unique tradition associated with this day is the consumption of ‘varme hveder’, a type of hot bread rolls, typically eaten on the evening before Store bededag.
Constitution Day (Grundlovsdag)
‘Grundlovsdag’, or Constitution Day, is a pivotal day in the Danish calendar, marking the anniversary of the signing of the Danish Constitution.
Significance: On this day in 1849, King Frederik VII signed the Danish Constitution, paving the way for Denmark as a constitutional monarchy. The day serves as a reminder of Denmark’s democratic journey and the rights and freedoms enjoyed by its citizens.
How the Day is Marked: Many political parties and organizations hold meetings or events, reflecting on democracy, rights, and societal development. It’s also one of the few days where the Danish flag, ‘Dannebrog’, is flown at full mast.
Christmas (Jul)
Christmas, or ‘Jul’ in Danish, is undeniably one of the most festive times of the year in Denmark, deeply rooted in both religious and cultural traditions.
Traditions: Danes usually celebrate on Christmas Eve, ‘Juleaften’, with a festive meal that may include dishes like roast pork, duck, or goose, followed by the traditional rice dessert called ‘risalamande’. Presents are exchanged after dinner, and many attend midnight church services.
How the Festive Season Unfolds: Leading up to Christmas, Denmark is adorned with lights, Christmas markets spring up, and the aroma of ‘æbleskiver’ (traditional Danish apple slices) and mulled wine, known as ‘gløgg’, fills the air. Another notable tradition is the ‘julefrokost’ or Christmas lunch, a feast often held with colleagues or friends in December, comprising various traditional dishes and schnapps.
Public Holidays and Work
Navigating the professional landscape in Denmark as a foreigner can often require an understanding of how public holidays interact with the workplace. Both in terms of legal rights and cultural practices, knowing what to expect on these special days can ensure smoother professional interactions and better work-life balance.
The Legal Implications
In Denmark, public holidays have particular legal significance when it comes to the workplace. Here’s what you should know:
Right to Time Off: In many workplaces, employees are entitled to have public holidays off. However, this is not a statutory right for all sectors, and some professions might require attendance, such as those in healthcare or essential services.
Compensation: If an employee is required to work on a public holiday, they might be entitled to additional compensation, whether in the form of increased pay (often referred to as “holiday pay“) or compensatory time off. The specifics, however, often depend on individual employment contracts or collective agreements.
Public Sector vs. Private Sector
There’s a differentiation in observance between the public and private sectors:
Public Sector: Government offices, institutions, and most schools typically remain closed on public holidays. Employees in this sector usually enjoy these holidays without any work obligations.
Private Sector: The observance in the private sector can vary. While many businesses close, essential services like hospitals, some retail establishments, and public transport might operate, albeit often on reduced hours or with limited staff.
Cultural Considerations
Beyond the legal framework, there are certain unwritten cultural norms associated with work and public holidays:
Respecting the Day: Even in sectors where work continues on public holidays, there’s a general understanding and respect for the significance of the day. It’s not unusual for workplaces to have reduced hours or for events and meetings to be avoided on these dates.
Planning Ahead: Due to potential business closures or reduced service hours, it’s a common practice to plan work schedules, meetings, and professional commitments well in advance, keeping public holidays in mind.
Impact on Daily Life
For those living in Denmark, the observance of public holidays goes beyond workplace implications. It significantly impacts various facets of daily life. From shopping routines to transportation, these days come with a set of changes that residents, especially foreigners unfamiliar with the local customs, would benefit from understanding.
Shopping and Retail
Public holidays can influence the usual rhythm of shopping and retail in Denmark:
Closure of Shops: On most public holidays, a majority of shops, including supermarkets, boutiques, and shopping malls, are closed. However, some smaller convenience stores or kiosks, especially in bigger cities, might remain open for limited hours.
Advance Preparation: Given the potential closures, locals often shop in advance. For newcomers, it’s advisable to plan grocery shopping and other essential purchases around these holidays to avoid last-minute inconveniences.
Public Transport
Whether you rely on buses, trains, or the metro, public holidays can bring about changes:
Reduced Services: Public transportation often operates on a limited schedule, similar to a Sunday timetable. While services might not be as frequent, they usually cover the full span of the day.
Timetable Checks: Always check the specific schedules on public holidays if you plan to travel. Transport agencies typically provide this information on their websites or at stations.
Restaurants and Entertainment
If you’re considering dining out or seeking entertainment, here’s what to expect:
Limited Options: Many restaurants, cafes, and entertainment venues might be closed on public holidays. However, in tourist-heavy areas or larger cities like Copenhagen, some establishments remain open to cater to visitors.
Booking in Advance: For those that are open, it’s a good idea to book in advance, especially if the holiday is a major one like Christmas or Easter, as locals too might be looking for dining options.
Cultural and Recreational Activities
Public holidays also offer opportunities:
Museums and Attractions: While some museums and attractions might close, others take the opportunity to draw in crowds with special events or extended hours. It’s best to check their official websites for specific details.
Outdoor Activities: Holidays are a great time to explore Denmark’s beautiful parks, beaches, and forests. While they remain accessible, do note that facilities like restrooms or cafes in these areas might be closed.
Experiencing Public Holidays as a Foreigner
For foreigners living in Denmark, public holidays provide a unique opportunity. They offer a window into the nation’s culture, traditions, and values. But more than that, they present a chance to actively participate, understand, and feel a part of the Danish community. Here’s a guide to making the most of these special days as an international resident.
Immerse Yourself in Traditions
Each holiday carries its unique customs and rituals:
- Engage in Festivities: Be it the singing of Easter songs, the creation and exchange of ‘gækkebreve’, or attending a traditional ‘julefrokost’, involve yourself in the practices. Not only does this offer a richer experience, but it also demonstrates a respect and appreciation for the local culture.
- Ask and Learn: If unsure about a particular custom or its significance, don’t hesitate to ask. Danes often appreciate genuine curiosity and are usually more than willing to explain and share their traditions.
Attend Public Celebrations
While some holidays are more personal and family-centric, others are celebrated in larger public arenas:
- Join Gatherings: On days like Constitution Day, attend public events, speeches, or gatherings. It’s a chance to witness democracy in action and appreciate the values the nation stands for.
- Festive Markets: During Christmas, explore the festive markets. They offer not just shopping but a sensory experience – from the aroma of seasonal treats to the sight of handcrafted decorations.
Respect the Significance
While participating is encouraged, it’s also essential to respect the deeper significance of certain holidays:
- Observe Quiet Days: On days of reflection, such as Good Friday, understand the somber undertone. Even if one doesn’t share the religious beliefs, respecting the sentiment is crucial.
- Understand Nuances: While Christmas is widely celebrated, remember that specific traditions or rituals might differ from what you’re accustomed to. Embrace these differences as they enrich the overall experience.
Connect with Others
Public holidays can be an excellent time to bond with others, both locals and fellow foreigners:
- Shared Celebrations: If you’re away from family, consider joining or organizing shared celebrations with other foreigners or locals. It can be a wonderful way to build connections and create new traditions.
- Language Exchange: Engaging in holiday-related activities can be a fun way to practice the Danish language. Partner with a local for a language exchange – while they help you with Danish, you can introduce them to traditions from your homeland.
