Ascension Day 2025

Description

Ascension Day is a Christian holiday that remembers when Christians believe Jesus returned to heaven after rising from the dead. It is a day to think about hope, faith, and the idea of life beyond this world.

The holiday falls 40 days after Easter, so its date changes each year. It always happens on a Thursday. Because Easter moves with the moon and spring, Ascension Day also moves from year to year on the calendar.

In the Faroe Islands Ascension Day is a public and bank holiday. Many people in the islands mark the day as part of the religious and cultural year. Schools and some businesses are often closed.

The day is significant because it links Easter with the wider Christian story about Jesus and heaven. It is part of a long tradition that shapes the Faroese calendar and the way people in the islands observe important moments in life and faith.

Traditions

On Ascension Day many people in the Faroes go to church for special services. Choirs sing old hymns. Church bells ring and families greet one another after the service. Singing and quiet reflection are common.

After church, communities gather for simple outdoor activities. Families walk along cliffs or by the sea. Small boat trips happen when weather allows. People enjoy the long light and fresh air together.

Meals are shared with traditional Faroese dishes. You might find skerpikjøt or ræstur fiskur with potatoes and rye bread. Coffee, sweet cakes, and flatbread are common. Neighbours bring food to share.

In some villages folk music and the Faroese chain dance appear. Older songs and stories are passed on while people celebrate together.

Travel Tips

Shops, some museums, and many small businesses may close or open late. Public transport can run on a reduced schedule. Plan ahead by checking timetables and buying groceries or tickets the day before to avoid last minute problems.

Expect churches and main squares to be busy in the morning. Roads and ferries can fill up around event times. Walk, bike, or use taxis early or late to avoid crowds. Respect local calm, take photos quietly, and support open cafes or guided tours for a safe, meaningful visit.