himmelfart

Himmelfart is the German term for the Christian feast of the Ascension, commemorating Jesus' ascent into heaven. It is celebrated in Western Christianity on the 40th day of the Easter season, typically a Thursday.

The word derives from German Himmel (heaven) and Fahrt (journey). The term has equivalents in other languages, such as Kristi himmelfartsdag in Danish, Kristi himmelfart in Norwegian, Hemelvaart in Dutch, and Ascension Day in English.

Observance varies by country. In Catholic and some Protestant communities, services focus on the Ascension narrative and may include processions. In several European countries, Himmelfart is a public holiday, leading to time off work and communal celebrations. In Germany, the day is often associated with outdoor outings and, in many regions, with Father's Day (Vatertag).

Dating: The date moves each year with Easter; it falls on the Thursday that is 40 days after Easter Sunday. This makes Himmelfart a movable feast within the liturgical calendar, marking the end of the Easter season’s core period in Western churches.

See also: The Ascension of Jesus is the central event commemorated by Himmelfart; related holidays include Easter and Pentecost, which follows several weeks later.