2026 Long Weekends In Denmark

An image of two people celebrating

In 2026, Denmark will once again offer residents and visitors plenty of opportunities to enjoy long weekends and well deserved holidays. With its rich cultural traditions, scenic countryside, and charming cities, Denmark’s 2026 calendar brings a series of extended breaks perfect for rest, exploration, and celebration.

Whether you’re drawn to the historic streets of Copenhagen, the peaceful coastal landscapes of Jutland, or the cozy charm of Danish holiday traditions, the long weekends in Denmark for 2026 promise unforgettable experiences and rejuvenating escapes.

Denmark Long Weekends  2026

  • New Year’s Day – Thursday, January 1

  • Maundy Thursday – Thursday, April 2

  • Good Friday – Friday, April 3

  • Easter Monday – Monday, April 6

  • Ascension Day – Thursday, May 14

  • Whit Monday (Pentecost Monday) – Monday, June 1

  • Christmas Eve – Thursday, December 24

  • Christmas Day – Friday, December 25

  • Boxing Day (Second Christmas Day) – Saturday, December 26

Denmark’s 2026 Long Weekends in Detail

New Year’s Day – December 31, 2025 to January 1, 2026 (Wednesday–Thursday)

Known as “Nytårsdag”, this celebration marks the beginning of the year with fireworks, family dinners, and festive gatherings. Danes toast to new beginnings with champagne and kransekage (almond ring cake). By taking Friday, January 2, off, many will enjoy a four-day long weekend to start 2026 refreshed.

Maundy Thursday – April 2 to April 5, 2026 (Thursday–Sunday)

Called “Skærtorsdag”, Maundy Thursday begins the Easter holidays in Denmark. Many Danes attend church services or gather for traditional meals. Families often exchange “gækkebrev”, the playful paper cut letters sent anonymously with rhyming verses. With Good Friday and the weekend following, it’s a four-day holiday period.

Good Friday – April 3 to April 5, 2026 (Friday–Sunday)

Known as “Langfredag”, Good Friday is a day of reflection and observance marking the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. Churches hold solemn services, and most businesses and schools are closed. Families often spend the day quietly or take short getaways before Easter Sunday celebrations.

Easter Monday – April 4 to April 6, 2026 (Saturday–Monday)

“Anden påskedag”, or Easter Monday, extends the Easter celebrations. It’s a three day weekend perfect for family visits, spring walks, or relaxing after the busy holiday. Danes embrace the season by enjoying outdoor activities and gathering for festive lunches.

Ascension Day – May 14 to May 17, 2026 (Thursday–Sunday)

Known as “Kristi Himmelfartsdag”, Ascension Day commemorates Christ’s ascension into heaven. Falling on a Thursday, it creates a four-day long weekend for many, as most Danes take Friday off. Families often use this time for mini vacations, cycling trips, or visits to the countryside.

Whit Monday (Pentecost Monday) – May 30 to June 1, 2026 (Saturday–Monday)

“Pinsedag” marks the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the apostles. The long weekend that includes Whit Monday is one of Denmark’s favorite spring holidays, combining religious traditions with outdoor fun. Towns host local festivals, concerts, and picnics, blending faith and festivity.

 Christmas Eve – December 24, 2026 (Thursday)

Called “Juleaften”, Christmas Eve is Denmark’s most important holiday celebration. Families gather for a candlelit dinner featuring roast pork, duck, and risalamande (rice pudding dessert). After dinner, everyone dances around the Christmas tree, sings carols, and exchanges gifts brought by Julemanden, the Danish Santa Claus.

Christmas Day – December 25, 2026 (Friday)

Known as “Juledag”, Christmas Day continues the cozy celebrations with relaxed family meals and festive gatherings. Homes are filled with candlelight and decorations, and it’s a peaceful day for rest and reflection after the joy of Christmas Eve.

Boxing Day (Second Christmas Day) – December 26, 2026 (Saturday)

Called “Anden juledag”, this day gives Danes an extra day off to continue their Christmas celebrations. Many use it for visiting friends, enjoying winter walks, or simply unwinding before the year’s end. Combined with the weekend, it creates a three day long weekend to close out the holiday season.

Conclusion

Denmark’s long weekends in 2026 offer a perfect balance of rest, family time, and tradition. From the cozy winter holidays to the bright, lively spring celebrations, each extended break is a chance to embrace “hygge” the Danish art of comfort and togetherness.

Whether you’re exploring Copenhagen’s cobbled streets, cycling through the countryside, or sharing festive meals by candlelight, these long weekends provide ideal opportunities to recharge and reconnect.

Plan ahead and make the most of every Denmark long weekend in 2026 moments of peace, joy, and celebration woven into the rhythm of the year.