Shrovetide parties on Langeland
Celebrate the Danish tradition on Langeland with barrel battles, fancy dress and "fastelav buns" - a party for young and old!
Shrovetide (fastelavn) in Denmark has its roots in Catholic times, when it marked the start of 40 days of fasting before Easter. The name ‘Fastelavn’ comes from the German ‘fastelabend’, which means ‘fasting evening’. Before Lent began, people ate well and feasted for several days.
On Langeland and Strynø, Shrovetide is still celebrated with joy and tradition. Children dress up and play ‘the cat out of the barrel’, an old tradition from the 16th century that today is all about community and fun. The fancy dress, barrel smashing and carnival buns create a festive atmosphere that brings the community together and keeps traditions alive.
Shrovetide celebrations with barrel smashing on Langeland and Strynø:
Rudkøbing Church - local Shrovetide, service and barrel making
Come dressed up for a short church service with stories and songs. Afterwards, the children beat the cat out of the barrel at Hotel Skandinavien and juice, coffee, tea, carnival buns and candy bags are served for the children.
Sunday 2 March 2025 14:00-17:00 in Rudkøbing Church - adults 25 kr.
The list is updated regularly.
Buy fastelavnsboller at the bakeries on Langeland
Shrovetide buns are an inevitable part of Shrovetide traditions and on Langeland you can find delicious flavours at local bakeries. These sweet treats are rooted in ancient traditions, where people enjoyed the best they could afford before Lent.
Today's Shrovetide buns come in many versions: classic yeast dough buns with cream, pastry buns filled with whipped cream, or perhaps something completely unique from your local baker. Stop by one of the island's bakeries and treat yourself or your family to freshly baked Shrovetide buns.