General Prayer Day, known in Denmark as 'Store Bededag', is a traditional holiday celebrated in the country on the fourth Friday after Easter. The day is quite unique to the Danes and carries a strong historical significance. It was first introduced by a Danish bishop in the 18th century, who consolidated several minor fast and prayer days into one major event in an attempt to simplify the calendar.
The holiday is often interpreted by the Danish people as a day of reflection and gratitude. It is a day set aside for everyone to say thanks for the blessings they have received and to collectively pray for the future. The combination of prolonged evening light – due to it being spring – and a public holiday allows people to slow down, reflect and spend time with their family and friends. Many use it as a chance to enjoy the outdoors, taking advantage of the longer, warmer days.
Traditions on General Prayer Day often include lighting candles and saying a prayer at home or in churches. The day has a culinary significance as well, with people traditionally consuming hot wheat buns — known locally as 'hveder' — on the night before the holiday. The 'hveder' buns were originally baked for the day by the local bakeries which were closed on the holiday itself, but it has since turned into a cherished tradition savored by many Danes.