Experience a unique Danish Easter

I know that Denmark is not very well-known for its amazing weather or its sunshine; however believe it or not Ærø is considered to be the sunniest place in Denmark. Ærø is an island in the South Fynen Archipelago (Southern region of Denmark), measuring roughly 20 kilometers from the northwest to the southeast of the island (yes very small). Ærø has numerous charms and hidden gems, as well as extraordinary traditions, with one of them being the celebration of Easter.

© Photo: Masa Mesic

On the Saturday before the actual Easter day, families and friends gather by the sea for the 'egg boiling' tradition. Fires are lit down by the shore across the island, which are later used to cook various delicacies throughout the day. Most traditionally, there starts the famous "egg boiling". This is typically done using an old pot on fire, in which the eggs are being boiled in salt water directly taken from the sea. (This by the way gives them an interesting flavor, not to mention a peculiar green color).

© Photo: Masa Mesic

Over the years several other foods have become regular parts of this full day event. Most common ( and kid's favorite) is the "sausage/pig in a blanket", which is also made on fire. Preparing these, is equally a part of a process, starting with finding sturdy sticks in the nature, on which to grill the sausages. Once the sticks have been cleaned and sharpened, they are pierced into the sausage, and then wrapped into a dough and grilled on the fire. Once the 'hot dog' has been grilled, it is garnished with mustard, ketchup, remoulade sauce, raw onions, roasted onions and pickles. It's then washed down with a beer and a Danish snaps, not to mention the copious amounts of dry Danish humor, before repeating these steps once or twice more.

Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages are consumed throughout the whole day. A word of warning though, concerning the Snaps which is typically served on that day; this is 40% alcohol drink, and it must be served ice cold. Whilst at first seeming harmless, it quickly has you moving through your gears... So you may want to hold off on a 'skål' (cheers) or well, maybe two.

This tradition has been going on for more than 300 years - the only such tradition in Denmark. Families and friends stay out by the sea the entire day. Depending on the timing of Easter, some years can be cooler than others. However no weather condition will prevent the Danes from celebrating, eating, drinking and having a cozy time with their family and friends. In the afternoon, families usually gather back in their kitchen for a cup of warm coffee or tea, Easter chocolate eggs, and traditional Easter cakes.