Fastelavn [1] is a Carnival tradition in the Northern European, and historically Lutheran, nations of Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Latvia, Estonia, Iceland, Faroe Islands, as well as Greenland. [2] [3] The traditions of Fastelavn vary somewhat by country and by local region, as some traditions have changed over time.

Feb 28, 2025 · Fastelavn is such a sweet and child-centric holiday that its more somber origins have been largely forgotten. Celebrated on the Sunday or Monday before Ash Wednesday (so, this is kind of Scandinavia’s Mardi Gras; make of that what you will), the holiday is based on the Roman Catholic tradition of celebrating the days before Lent.

Feb 11, 2021 · Celebrated in February or early March across Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden, Fastelavn means “the evening before Lent”, as the holiday is based on the Catholic tradition of celebrating the run-up to Lent.

Feb 13, 2023 · Fastelavn, or Shrovetide, is a holiday that is closely tied to the Christian religious observance of Lent. Lent takes place from mid-February (usually) and continues for 40 days, ending with the celebration of Easter in April.

Feb 6, 2021 · Fastelavn is the Danish equivalent of carnival. We have compiled a useful guide of what to do, where to go, and what to eat on this day. Join the celebrations of fastelavn in Denmark and Copenhagen!

This carnival tradition of Fastelavn is all set to roll on February 15. Fastelavn is a Danish tradition, although it is celebrated in many Northern European countries like Norway, Sweden, Iceland, Greenland, Finland, Estonia, and the Faroe Islands.

Mar 2, 2025 · Fastelavn is a lively celebration in Denmark, often compared to a mix of Halloween and Carnival. On this vibrant day, children dressed in colorful costumes fill the streets, knocking on doors for treats, much like trick-or-treating.

Feb 6, 2021 · The roots of Fastelavn are quite ancient, coming from chasing away evil spirits and welcoming the new growth with fertility rituals. Hitting the cat out of the barrel was a practice primarily in Denmark and Skåne, Sweden.

Feb 8, 2021 · Fastelavn is the Danish version of the traditionally Catholic holiday of Carnival. It takes place seven weeks prior to Easter and, while not a public holiday, is widely celebrated throughout the country.

Feb 5, 2025 · Learn more about the Danish celebration - Fastelavn. Uncover the traditions, history, and joyful customs of this exciting pre-Lenten holiday. Our deadline for Easter orders is 13/4.