Holy Saturday

Holy Saturday History

Holy Saturday, or Påskeaften in Norwegian, is the day between Good Friday and Easter Sunday that commemorates the time Jesus Christ lay in the tomb after his crucifixion. As part of the Christian Holy Week, it represents a time for reflection and prayer for the followers of Christianity. This day is significant as it symbolizes the transition from darkness and sorrow to hope and joy, leading up to the resurrection on Easter Sunday.

In Norway, Holy Saturday has deep historical roots dating back to the Christianization of the country in the 10th and 11th centuries. It has since played a significant role in Norwegian religious and cultural life, as many customs and traditions are associated with this observance. For instance, this day is also known as Stille Lørdag or Silent Saturday, which emphasizes the serene, somber atmosphere intended for reflection on Christ's passion and sacrifice.

In contemporary Norway, Holy Saturday is marked by several customs and activities. Some Norwegians attend Påskeaften services held at local churches, while others may participate in momentous religious processions and events known as Påskepassioner. In addition to religious aspects, people often use this day for family gatherings, preparing påskelam (Easter lamb) for the festive meal on Easter Sunday, and for sharing the specially prepared Easter eggs filled with sweets. Holy Saturday typically falls on the day before Easter, which is determined by the first Sunday after the first full moon following the Vernal Equinox in late March or early April.

Top facts about Holy Saturday

• Easter celebrations are linked to the lunar calendar. We now celebrate Easter on the first Sunday after the first full moon after the vernal equinox (March 21).
• Easter Saturday is the final day of Holy week, which includes Good Friday and Maundy Thursday. It is also the final day of Lenten fasting.
• In some parts of Norway, Holy Saturday is the day for cleaning the house and preparing for the Easter celebrations on the following day.
• Norway has a tradition of brewing special Easter beers called Påskeøl, which is typically consumed during the holiday.

In the News and Trending in Norway for Holy Saturday

Top things to do for Holy Saturday in Norway

• Take a moment and reflect upon what Jesus' resurrection means to you and to the world as a whole. More than one billion people on the planet believe in his resurrection, without it, Christianity would not be a dominant religion today.
• Light a Paschal candle. These white candles are symbols of Jesus' presence and his guidance out of the dark.
• Holy Saturday is a perfect time to indulge in traditional Norwegian Easter food. People cook and enjoy dishes like lamb, pinnekjøtt (salted and dried lamb ribs), cured salmon, rømmegrøt (sour cream porridge), and various breads like lefse or fyrstekake.
• Holy Saturday marks the beginning of indulging in Norwegian Easter candy. People exchange chocolate eggs, marzipan figures, and other sweet treats with family and friends. Kvikk Lunsj, a popular Norwegian chocolate bar, is often consumed during Easter picnics.