Easter Monday in Denmark

Meaning and place in Easter

Easter Monday follows Easter Sunday, the Christian celebration of Jesus’ resurrection. The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Denmark describes the day as continuing that celebration and says it marks the beginning of the 40 days in which the risen Jesus appeared to his disciples.[1]

The observance has a history in Denmark: the church account notes that a Third Easter Day was also celebrated until 1770. Easter Monday is part of the wider Christian Easter season, while its Danish name and public-holiday status place it within the country’s own calendar of public holidays.[1][2]

A public holiday under Danish law

Danish legislation identifies the first and second days of Easter among the public holidays. The 2023 act, which amended the Shop Closing Act, spells out that list; Easter Monday is therefore a statutory public holiday for the purposes of the shop-closing rules.[2]

The holiday is observed on the Monday immediately after Easter Sunday, so its calendar date changes from year to year. A public holiday does not by itself establish identical time-off arrangements for every employee: Danish employment contracts must set out holiday rights, and may refer to a collective agreement that regulates working conditions.[4]

What closes and what may stay open

Banks generally close on public holidays, and Danmarks Nationalbank lists Easter Monday among its bank closing days. Visitors and residents should plan banking around the holiday, especially where a transaction depends on bank processing.[3]

Retail shops are generally required to close on public holidays, including Easter Monday. Exceptions include small grocery shops and certain shops selling specified goods or located at places such as petrol stations, airports and railway stations; opening hours can vary, so check the individual shop before setting out.[2][5]

The holiday’s religious meaning and its effect on banks and retail are described here. Check local services and activities with the relevant provider.[1][3][5]