Fastelavn is a traditional Danish carnival for kids that takes place before lent each year. In a typical year, NWDA hosts in-person celebrations for Fastelavn in Seattle and Portland. The events are popular among families in the Pacific Northwest.
Families love participating in this traditional day to experience the fun and games. Crafts, a costume parade, and songs are all part of the festivities. A lucky Cat Queen or Cat King breaks a barrel piñata filled with candy and a stuffed animal cat. As old Danish tradition has it, beating the cat out of the barrel chases the winter away.
Fastelavn in 2022:
Fastelavn this year is on Sunday, February 19th 2023. We will be gathering in person again this year to celebrate!
Join us at the Seattle Danish Center on Sunday 2/19/2023 for all the fun!
Fastelavn
Sunday February 19, 2023
2:00 – 4:00 pm
Seattle Danish Center Harmony Hall
1833 N 105th St
Suite 205
Seattle, WA 98133
***Please note that the elevator at the Seattle Northwest Danish Association building is currently not working. The Hall is on the second floor and is only accessible via the stairs at this time.
We have a virtual guide from last year for a stay-at-home Fastelavn if you would like to learn more. Chase the winter away the Danish way! Follow the guidelines in the kit to:
- Make ‘fastelavnsris’ and other Danish crafts
- Sing songs
- Make fastelavnsboller (festive sweet rolls)
- And dress up in costume at home too, if you have one!
Sign up for the e-bulletin to receive updates on Fastelavn 2023! Become a member of NWDA to support NWDA activities like Fastelavn.
Send us photos of your at-home Fastelavn!
Email all photos to emily@nwdanish.org
