Danish phrase of the day: slik eller ballade

Learning the Danish phrase slik eller ballade helps families celebrate Halloween. The phrase is the local translation for trick or treat. Children wear costumes and ask for sweets on Halloween night. The three words translate directly to sweets, or, and trouble.

Halloween entered Danish culture during the mid-1990s. It became a major event in the 2000s. Historically, Denmark celebrated Fastelavn instead. During Fastelavn, children sang and shook containers for coins or treats. Today, most Danish families understand the English term trick or treat as well.

Local neighbourhood etiquette is important during Halloween. A lit carved pumpkin or decoration outside a door shows participation. It means the home has sweets for children. An unlit or undecorated doorway means do not disturb. It can also mean the family ran out of sweets.

Trick or treating is less common in city apartment buildings. Walking up stairwells can be tiring for children. Some apartment buildings set up agreed internal routes for kids. In diverse areas, families can consider halal-friendly sweets without pork gelatin. The Local reported this cultural update.