Great Prayer Day 2025 in Denmark

Great Prayer Day (Store Bededag) was a centuries-old Danish holiday, established in 1686 as a day of prayer and fasting after Easter. Abolished in 2024 to boost economic productivity, it was best known for the tradition of eating warm wheat buns (varme hveder) the evening before.

Great Prayer Day: A Public Holiday?

Great Prayer Day was once a public holiday in Denmark but was officially abolished in 2024 to boost economic productivity. With its removal, businesses, offices, and schools now operate as usual.

Great Prayer Day

Great Prayer Day, or Store Bededag, was introduced in Denmark in 1686 by King Christian V. It was created to merge several smaller religious fasting and prayer days into one, making it easier for people to observe. The day was meant for prayers, fasting, and church services, with strict rules prohibiting work and trade. Over time, its religious significance declined, but the tradition of eating warm wheat buns, known as "varme hveder," the night before remained popular. The holiday was observed on the fourth Friday after Easter and was considered a cherished part of Danish culture. However, in 2024, the Danish government abolished Great Prayer Day to increase economic productivity, ending its long-standing status as a public holiday.

Observance of Great Prayer Day in Denmark

Although Great Prayer Day is no longer an official holiday, many Danes still follow its traditions. The most popular custom is eating warm wheat buns, varme hveder, on the evening before the day. This tradition began because bakers were not allowed to work on the holiday, so they prepared the buns in advance for people to enjoy later. Families and friends gather to share these freshly toasted buns, often with butter and jam, keeping the tradition alive even after the holiday's abolition.

Previously, Great Prayer Day was also a day of relaxation and reflection. Many people took peaceful walks along the city's old ramparts, a common tradition in Copenhagen. Church services were held, though attendance declined over time. The extra holiday provided a break in the spring calendar, which many Danes used for leisure activities, making it a valued part of Danish life.

The removal of Great Prayer Day as a public holiday sparked debate, as many saw it as a loss of cultural heritage. Despite this, the tradition of eating "varme hveder" remains strong, serving as a reminder of the holiday's historical significance. Even without the official holiday, Danes continue to honor the day in their own ways, keeping a piece of history alive.

Great Prayer Day Observances