Fastelavn

What is Fastelavn?

Fastelavn is a traditional Danish carnival celebrated seven weeks before Easter. It is a time of joy and festivity, especially for children, who engage in various activities such as hitting a barrel filled with treats, known as “Slå katten af tønden” (Hit the Cat out of the Barrel).

How does it work?

During Fastelavn, children dress up in costumes and participate in games, including the iconic barrel-hitting event. A barrel filled with candy and small gifts is hung up, and children take turns trying to break it open. The child who breaks the barrel is crowned “Cat King” or “Cat Queen.”