Hemelvaartdag

Hemelvaartdag, in Dutch, known in English as Ascension Day, is a Christian feast day commemorating the ascension of Jesus into heaven. In the Western Christian calendar it occurs on the 40th day after Easter, always a Thursday, marking the conclusion of the Easter season.

The feast originates from New Testament accounts (Acts 1:9-11) describing Jesus' ascension 40 days after the Resurrection and his promise to send the Holy Spirit to his followers. The day emphasizes Jesus' exaltation and the completion of his earthly mission.

Observance: In many countries, Ascension Day is a public holiday. Worship services reflect the theme of Jesus' departure and empowerment by the Holy Spirit. Traditions vary by country: some areas hold processions, others host family gatherings or travel on the long weekend; in the Netherlands, Hemelvaartdag is a national holiday with closures of many shops and institutions.

Names and language: The Dutch term Hemelvaartdag literally means 'heaven-journey day' and corresponds to Ascension Day in other languages (Ascension in English, Auffahrt in German, L'Ascension in French). The date depends on Easter, and is part of the broader paschal season.

It is followed by Pentecost, which marks 50 days after Easter.