Public Holidays in Denmark
Denmark’s public holidays bring together traditions, family, and nationwide time off. Here’s how Danes celebrate, what’s open or closed, and what you should know as a newcomer.
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Did you know? Most Danish holidays are Christian in origin, but are now celebrated by everyone—religious or not! On many holidays, nearly all shops and offices are closed.
Overview: What to Expect
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Fixed & Moveable Holidays
Some holidays always fall on the same date (e.g. Christmas), others change yearly (Easter, Great Prayer Day).
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Shops & Offices Closed
On major holidays, most supermarkets, government offices, and banks are closed. Plan ahead!
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Flag Days
On certain holidays the Danish flag is flown everywhere—from buses to homes.
Main Danish Public Holidays (2025)
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Christmas (Jul)
24-26 December. The most important Danish family holiday, with feasts and gifts on Christmas Eve.
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Easter (Påske)
Thursday–Monday in March or April. Includes Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, Easter Sunday & Monday.
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Great Prayer Day (Store Bededag)
Fourth Friday after Easter (16 May in 2025). A unique Danish holiday—traditionally marked with warm wheat buns.
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Ascension Day (Kristi Himmelfartsdag)
40 days after Easter. Many Danes take a long weekend.
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Pentecost (Pinse)
7th Sunday and Monday after Easter (8-9 June 2025). Known for picnics and outdoor gatherings.
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Constitution Day (Grundlovsdag)
5 June. Not an official public holiday, but many offices and schools are closed.
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New Year’s Day
1 January. Shops closed, Danes recover from a festive night of fireworks and gatherings.
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Midsummer (Sankthans)
23 June. Celebrated with bonfires, singing, and hygge on the beach or in parks.
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Fastelavn (Carnival)
Date varies (before Lent). Kids dress up, “beat the barrel,” and eat sweet buns.
Traditions & Customs
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Family Gatherings
Major holidays are family time—expect big dinners, visiting relatives, and closed businesses.
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Traditional Foods
Hot wheat buns (Store Bededag), roast pork, duck, herring, and rice pudding are festive staples.
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Fireworks & Bonfires
Bonfires for Midsummer (Sankthans), fireworks on New Year’s Eve—join the fun, but follow local rules.
Practical Tips for Internationals
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Shops Close Early
Grocery stores and malls may close early the day before holidays—stock up in advance!
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Transport Schedules
Trains, buses, and metro often run on limited schedules or stop early on holidays.
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Join the Celebrations!
Many local municipalities organize Easter egg hunts, Sankthans bonfires, and Christmas markets—everyone is welcome!
Useful Resources & External Links
Related on exploringdenmark
Frequently Asked Questions
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Are shops and supermarkets open?
Most are closed on major holidays (especially Christmas, Easter, New Year’s Day). Some small kiosks or 7-Eleven may stay open.
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Is Constitution Day a day off?
Constitution Day (5 June) is a partial holiday—many offices and schools close, but it’s not a full public holiday.
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What are the most celebrated holidays?
Christmas, Easter, and New Year’s Eve/Day are the biggest. Midsummer (Sankthans) and Carnival (Fastelavn) are also uniquely Danish!
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Can I travel on holidays?
Yes, but expect reduced transport and book tickets early—many Danes go away for Easter, Pentecost, and Christmas.
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Are holidays family-focused?
Absolutely—most Danes spend holidays with family, hosting meals or traveling to see relatives.
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Is it safe to use fireworks?
Fireworks are only legal around New Year’s Eve and must be used safely—check local rules!
