FREDERIK FLACH
PARTNER AT LIMUNT.COM
Musician, booker and event organiser with 20 years’ experience.
31 August 2026
Confirmation is one of life’s major milestones, and for many families, grandparents play a very special role. When the question "what do grandparents do at their grandchild’s confirmation" arises, the answer is often far more nuanced than simply turning up with a present. Grandparents are the keepers of traditions, values and memories, and their presence at the confirmation is of great significance – both to the confirmand and the rest of the family.
FREDERIK FLACH
PARTNER AT LIMUNT.COM
Musician, booker and event organiser with 20 years’ experience.
31 August 2026
The importance of grandparents at their grandchildren’s confirmation
For many confirmands, it brings joy and a sense of security to know that their grandparents are taking part in the celebrations. They can share their life experience, tell funny or touching stories from their own youth, and offer the confirmand a unique perspective on the transition from childhood to adulthood. Grandparents can also help to create a sense of continuity within the family, as they have often experienced confirmations across generations and can contribute both tradition and fresh ideas.
It is important to remember, however, that the role of grandparents is not the same in every family. In some families, it is traditional for grandparents to help with the preparations, whilst in others they mainly attend as guests. Whatever role they play, their involvement is almost always appreciated – and often expected – by both the confirmand and their parents.
Traditions and expectations: What do grandparents do at their grandchildren’s confirmation?
When grandparents are due to attend their grandchild’s confirmation, there are a number of traditions and expectations they should be aware of. Many people ask themselves: "What do grandparents do at their grandchild’s confirmation?" The answer varies, but there are some common features that are shared by most Danish families.
It is a long-standing tradition for grandparents to give a speech or write a personal card to the confirmand. This can be a touching moment, where life experience and love are passed on to the young person. It doesn’t have to be a long speech – often it is the personal anecdotes and the small, well-chosen words that make the greatest impression. If you’re lacking inspiration for your speech, you can find useful advice and examples at this guide for festive occasions.
The gift is, of course, also a central part of the confirmation. It is important to take the family’s traditions and your own financial circumstances into account. Some grandparents choose to give money, whilst others prefer a personal gift, such as a piece of jewellery, an heirloom or something homemade. The most important thing is that the gift is given with thought and love – not necessarily that it is expensive. For families on a tight budget, it may be a good idea to consider creative gift alternatives, such as a photo album of memories, a letter with words of wisdom, or a shared experience that doesn’t have to cost much.
Grandparents often lend a hand with the practicalities too – for example, baking cakes, laying the table or helping out on the day itself. This can be a great help to the parents, especially if there are lots of guests. At the same time, it’s a way for grandparents to feel involved and make an active contribution to the party.
Tips for grandparents: How to make your grandchild’s confirmation a memorable occasion
If, as a grandparent, you want to make your grandchild’s confirmation a truly special occasion, there are several things you might consider. Firstly, it’s important to show an interest in and commitment to the confirmand’s life – ask about their preparations, take part in conversations about faith, traditions and the future, and be there for them, offering your presence and support.
Also consider how you can contribute to the party in a way that suits you and your family. Perhaps you have a special recipe you can contribute to the cake table, or maybe you can help with the decorations or organise a fun activity for the children. If you have any special talents, such as playing music or singing, you might consider putting on a performance at the party – this is often a big hit with both the confirmand and the guests.
Another way to make the day even more memorable is to create a special moment between you and the confirmand. This could be, for example, a walk together, where you have the chance to talk in peace and quiet, or a small ritual in which you pass on a family heirloom or a special symbol. The confirmand will often remember these moments long after the party itself.
For grandparents who want to go the extra mile with the invitation or the party, it might be a good idea to take inspiration from guides such as this Danish guide to invitations and party planning or the English version for Danes living abroad.
Gifts and finances: Finding the right balance as a grandparent
Confirmation gifts are a topic that often weighs heavily on the minds of both grandparents and parents. What is an appropriate gift? Should it be money, a piece of jewellery, or perhaps something else entirely? For many grandparents, it is important to strike a balance between giving something meaningful whilst also taking into account their own financial situation and the family’s expectations.
If you’re on a tight budget, there are plenty of ways to give a personal and memorable gift without breaking the bank. Consider a handwritten letter, a photo album with pictures of your grandchild growing up, or perhaps an experience you can share – such as a trip to the cinema, a day at a museum or a cosy dinner. These gifts can often mean more to the confirmand than a large cash gift, because they are personal and show thoughtfulness.
If you’re in a position to give a more substantial gift, you could choose something that will last for many years – such as a piece of jewellery with an engraving, a watch or a family heirloom that can be passed down to future generations. The most important thing is that the gift reflects your relationship with the confirmand and doesn’t turn into a competition about who gives the most. Remember that it’s the thought and the love behind the gift that count most.
For more tips on how to make your gift personal and memorable, you can read more at Borger.dk’s page on confirmation, where you’ll find inspiration for both traditions and gift ideas.
Practical advice: How to ensure grandparents have a great confirmation day
Confirmation day can be a long day full of new experiences, both for the confirmand and for grandparents. To ensure it’s a good experience, it’s a good idea to do a bit of preparation in advance. Make sure you’re clear on the timetable, transport and any tasks you need to help with. Feel free to talk to the parents about how you can best contribute – perhaps they need help setting the table, serving food or taking photos during the party.
If you have any special needs – for example, regarding diet, allergies or mobility – please let us know well in advance so that the family can make the necessary arrangements. This also applies if you need breaks during the day – it’s perfectly fine to step back for a bit and rest if necessary. Remember that your presence and support are what matter most to the confirmand.
For many grandparents, it is also a great joy to be able to share the day with other family members, who may be travelling from far afield. Take this opportunity to strengthen family ties, share memories and create new traditions together. If you’re unsure about etiquette or practical matters, you can always ask the parents for advice or look for inspiration online. For example, you can find useful advice on invitations, planning and festive activities at Limunt.com’s guide to party planning.
Whether you’re a grandparent for the first time or have been one before, your role at your grandchild’s confirmation is something quite special. With your presence, love and small personal touches, you can help make the day unforgettable – both for the confirmand and for the whole family.
Would you like more tips on how to make the confirmation ceremony extra memorable – or are you looking for inspiration for speeches, gifts or festive activities? Visit Limunt.com’s guide to the perfect party …and discover plenty of advice, examples and inspiration for all of life’s big occasions!
