24
Denmark
Copenhagen

Christmas Time in Copenhagen: Activities in December

2023-12-08

Delightful December is finally here, and Stromma is excited to guide you through the season's joy in Copenhagen! ‘Tis the season to be jolly, as the popular Christmas song goes, and our city is brimming with activities that spread the festive cheer. In our guide, we've curated a mix of classic Christmassy December activities and some new, fun options that you may not have tried or even considered.

Christmas Markets and Danish Delights

Immerse yourself in the yuletide atmosphere at Copenhagen's enchanting Christmas Markets - an essential Copenhagen December experience. These markets are more than just shopping destinations; they're a festive journey, offering a taste of Danish holiday cheer with a sprinkle of Copenhagen's unique charm! Find cute Christmas ornaments and festive decorations while indulging in delicious Christmas treats like æbleskiver and hot chocolate. You’ll find the Christmas Markets at Højbro Plads and Kongens Nytorv. The markets are open daily through December 21st.

Glögg - A Christmas Tradition

Glögg is a must when in Denmark around Christmas. This hot and spicy holiday beverage, which originated in Sweden, made its way to Denmark after World War II and quickly became a treasured holiday tradition. We suggest you pay a visit to the popular Hviids Vinstue, if you want to taste some of the city’s best Glögg. Hviids Vinstue is one of the oldest bars in Copenhagen and has been in the exact same location for close to 300 years – a piece of Copenhagen history!

Say cheers at Hviids Vinstue at Kongens Nytorv 19, 1050 Copenhagen K

Ice Skating at Broens: A December Favorite in Copenhagen

After indulging in delicious Christmas goodies, why not visit one of the city’s outdoor skating rinks and burn off some energy? Pay a visit to Broens Ice Skating Rink, located right in the heart of the city. With a 600 m2 ice rink there is plenty of space to show off your ice-skating moves. This is a fun activity for all ages and if you are a bit like Bambi, you can rent a ‘skating-buddy’ to help you keep your balance on the ice. Skates and helmets are available for rent, but you are also welcome to bring your own skates. Open daily through February 25th 2024.

Glide into the holiday spirit at Broens Ice Skating Rink, located at Strandgade 95, 1401 Copenhagen K

Tivoli – A Fairytale Christmas Experience

Christmas in Tivoli is something straight out of a fairytale! The beautiful decorations have turned the entire garden into a Christmas wonderland, and you can feel the magic of Christmas everywhere. Rent ice skates and enjoy Tivoli's own dazzling light display reminiscent of the Northern Lights. Meet Santa with the kids, and savor Christmas food at the many food stalls. In between rides you can shop for Christmas decorations, cozy sweaters, and woolly socks.

On December 13th at 17:30, you can enjoy the Lucia parade, featuring a choir of almost 100 talented children from various youth choirs, as they walk through Tivoli.

Buy one of our Tivoli combo-tickets that includes an entrance ticket to Tivoli and skip the ticket line. Please note that Tivoli is closed on December 24th.

Tivoli Christmas 2023.jpg

Floating Lucia Parade – A Unique Copenhagen Tradition

If you want to experience a more alternative Lucia Parade we suggest you catch the floating parade. Watch as hundreds of decorated kayaks illuminate the canals. The kayakers sing from five stops along the way:

  • Stop 1 at 17:15 -  Nyhavn
  • Stop 2 at 17:45 – Christianshavn
  • Stop 3 at 18:10 – BLOX
  • Stop 4 at 18:30 – Højbro Plads
  • Stop 5 at 18:45 – Kayak Hotel and Bar

Floating Lucia Parade.jpg

The Nutcracker – A Christmas Ballet at the Royal Danish Theatre

For those who adore the festive season and the elegance of ballet, 'The Nutcracker' at the Royal Danish Theatre is a treat not to be missed. It's a Christmas classic that brings a touch of magic and wonder to the Copenhagen winter. The magic of Christmas descends as Marie and her nutcracker prince go on a journey where anything can happen. Tchaikovsky’s most beloved music sets the background for this whimsical fairy tale ballet that is popular among people of all ages around the world.

Experience the enchantment at the Royal Danish Theater at August Bournevilles Passage 8, 1017 Copenhagen K

Jazz Up Your December with a Christmas Jazz Cruise

Add some Christmas spice to your Sunday with our swinging Christmas Jazz Cruise! Enjoy live jazz on the water as we sail along the picturesque canals and through the historic harbor. Our talented jazz bands play beloved Christmas classics with a jazzy twist and holiday spirit is guaranteed. All boats are covered and heated, so even though the temperature is low you will be comfortable and warm.

Set sail on our Christmas Jazz Cruise on Sunday, December 10th, and Sunday, December 17th, with departures from Nyhavn at 15:00.

Christmas Jazz Cruise.jpg

Hot tub Magic in Copenhagen: A Winter Delight

Dive into the enchanting contrast of Copenhagen's crisp winter air and the soothing warmth of a hot tub. This unique outdoor experience offers a cozy refuge, blending the thrill of the cold with the comfort of warmth, creating unforgettable winter memories! At Hottub Copenhagen, plunge into the soothing warmth of 40°C waters. As you soak in the stunning views of the city, let the warmth envelop you, melting away the hustle and bustle of daily life. Towels will be provided for you upon arrival. Add a little something extra to your experience with champagne or other beverages to enjoy in the hot tub.

Soak up the coziness at HOTTUB COPENHAGEN, nestled at Refshalevej 325, 1432 Copenhagen K


Join us for a December to remember in Copenhagen! From the melodic sounds of jazz, the graceful beauty of ballet, to the joy of meeting Santa or gliding across the ice, we're here to fill your holiday with cheer. Don't miss out on the magic; we look forward to celebrating with you.

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