Candlemas (2 February)

Candlemas, observed on 2 February, is both an ancient Danish farmers’ feast and a Catholic holy day — and until 1770, it was an official public holiday in Denmark.

In the Catholic tradition, the day commemorates the purification of the Virgin Mary and the presentation of the infant Jesus at the temple. According to the Old Testament, a woman was considered unclean for 40 days after giving birth. The Church marked the end of this period by lighting candles in honour of the Virgin Mary — hence the name Candlemas, derived from Candelabra Mass, a celebration of light.

Originally, the evening began with a ritual fire kindled outside the church using flint — a pure flame. Once the fire had been blessed, each family lit a candle and carried it in procession to the church. These candles were highly treasured, kept at home, and only lit during storms or in times of danger, such as childbirth, death, or serious illness.

Candlemas was also a significant date in the agricultural calendar. The barren season stretched from the start of winter (1 November) to the beginning of the growing season (1 May). Right at the midpoint — 2 February — lay Kyndelmisse, the very heart of winter. On this day, the farmer would assess feed supplies in the barn and granary to ensure they would last through the remainder of the cold months.

Several folk rituals were associated with Candlemas. One of the most cherished involved finding — or being gifted — a healthy apple from storage and eating it, as a symbol of good health for the year ahead.

Conditori La Glace has crafted marzipan Candlemas apples since 1870. It is an old Danish tradition, and perhaps only La Glace still honours it. In an age where new customs constantly appear and are adopted into Danish life, it may be a healthy practice, from time to time, to pause and reflect on the wealth of traditions we already have.

Marzipan Apple
Filled with apple and rosehip jam, presented in a beautiful La Glace tin and accompanied by the story of this special day.
Price: DKK 135

Available approx. 15 January – 15 February
Available from our gift shop.