Palm Sunday in Denmark

Palm Sunday, known as "Palmesøndag" in Danish, marks the beginning of Holy Week and commemorates Jesus Christ's triumphant entry into Jerusalem. It takes place on the Sunday before Easter.

History and Traditions:

In Denmark, Palm Sunday does not have the same prominence as in some other countries with larger Catholic populations, as Denmark is predominantly Lutheran. However, it remains a recognized religious day.

Historically, and still today to some extent, children in Denmark participate in a tradition similar to that of Halloween in the United States. They craft homemade decorations such as paper cuttings and gather willow branches (sometimes referred to as "palm" branches despite the lack of actual palm trees in Denmark) that they decorate with colorful feathers and paper. They then go from door to door, offering these decorated branches in exchange for candy or sometimes money. This custom is known as "gækkebrev," which is more commonly associated with Easter but has its activities beginning on Palm Sunday.

In churches across Denmark, Palm Sunday services are held where parishioners may receive blessed palm fronds or substitute local greenery due to the scarcity of palms. The services often include processions and reading passages from the Bible about Jesus' entry into Jerusalem.

What People Do:

• Church Attendance: Many Danes who observe religious traditions attend church services where they may participate in liturgical readings or processions.

• Gækkebreve: Some children still engage in creating and exchanging gækkebreve for treats.

• Family Time: As with many religious holidays, families might gather for a meal and to spend time together.

• Preparation for Easter: Palm Sunday also serves as a preparation period for the upcoming Easter celebrations, with people starting to decorate their homes and planning festive activities for the following week.