Hvítasunnudagur

Hvítasunnudagur, also known as Pentecost, is a Christian festival celebrated on the seventh Sunday after Easter. It commemorates the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the Apostles, as described in the Book of Acts in the New Testament. This event is considered a pivotal moment in early Christianity, marking the birth of the Church and the empowerment of Jesus' followers to spread his teachings.

In Iceland, Hvítasunnudagur is a public holiday. The name "Hvítasunnudagur" literally translates to "White Sunday," a reference to the white garments traditionally worn by those baptized on this day in the early Church. While the tradition of baptism on this day is less common now, the name has persisted. The holiday is often observed with church services, family gatherings, and outdoor activities, weather permitting, as it falls in late spring. It is the culmination of the Easter season, following Ascension Day. The festival is a significant part of the liturgical calendar for many Christian denominations, reminding believers of the Holy Spirit's presence and work in the world and in their lives.