Christmas in Copenhagen, like the rest of Scandinavia, is a cornucopia of celebrations. Here’s your guide to what's on this November and December.
Tivoli Gardens Christmas Market. Copenhagen’s 100 year old amusement park, Tivoli Gardens, comes alive with a Christmas village, Christmas elves, a traditional market. The truly curious can watch a performance of the “Hip Hop Nutcracker” in the Tivoli Concert Hall. If you are traveling with kids, treat them to a pony ride around the park or a ride on a carousel. November 15 through December 31, closed December 24 and 25
Den Gamle By (Old Town) Christmas Market. This year’s theme is 300 years of Christmas. Look for decorations and displays featuring Christmas traditions and decorations from bygone eras. November 11 through December 30 (except Dec. 24 and 25).
Nyhavn Christmas Festivities. The Nyhavn district of Copenhagen will kick off Christmas with the annual Christmas beer tasting on November 18. Be there from 1:00-3:00pm for a free sample and to hear a live jazz band serenading the crowd. Have an apple dumpling and wash it down with a hot, sweet mug of glögg, then shop for Christmas gifts for friends and family. Keep walking toward the d’Angelterre Hotel to see how they’ve decked themselves out this year. November 17-December 30.
Christmas Tables at Royal Copenhagen. Every year, since 1963, the china maker Royal Copenhagen sets an elaborate Christmas themed table. The theme of the 2006 tables is “Christmas in the Metropolises of the World.” Factory “seconds’ are sold from 20-50% below the normal price. Located at the Royal Copenhagen complex at Amagertorv (Amager Square). November 24 until December 30.
Christmas Design Market. Those who appreciate cutting edge design should pay a visit to the market in the Danish Design Centre. The market features gifts designed and made by students at the school. The entrance fee includes admission to the market and the design museum. December 10 from 11am to 4pm.
Lighting of the City's Christmas Tree. See the mayor of Copenhagen light the city’s official Christmas tree in front of City Hall on November 26 at 4pm. The Christmas parade starts at 2:30pm from Nyhavn, continues through the pedestrian street, Strøget, and ends at the City Hall Square.
Christiania’s “Alternative” Christmas. Head to Grey Hall in Christiania, the alternative hippie district, to browse unusual and unique handmade products, like candles, sweaters, and hand crafted jewelry. The market is also known for the exotic foods it sells. December 10-20.