Ultimate Guide to Christmas at Tivoli Gardens, Copenhagen

Thinking about visiting Tivoli Gardens during Christmas? Trust me, it’s absolutely worth it!

I visited Tivoli during Christmas, and it truly felt like stepping into a fairytale. Most Danes make it a yearly tradition to visit Tivoli during the Christmas season.

I’ll explain why Tivoli Gardens is a must-visit this Christmas season, including details about the light displays, Christmas market, seasonal treats, and special shows. 

It’s a wonderful hygge experience for all ages that will leave a lasting impression!

Are you ready to dive into the holiday magic of Tivoli? Let’s go!

Christmas at Tivoli Dates

Christmas at Tivoli Gardens runs from mid-November to early January. In 2024, the Christmas celebrations are from 15 November to 5 January.

The opening hours are:

• Saturday to Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
• Thursday and Friday: 11:00 AM – Midnight

Christmas Decorations at Tivoli Gardens

Tivoli Gardens transforms into a winter wonderland during Christmas. Over one million lights, 50000+ baubles, and thousands of Christmas trees add to the festive vibe.

The Nimb Hotel at the Tivoli is richly decorated and glows with numerous lights.

My favorite is the giant Christmas tree between the Tivoli Concert Hall and the Open Air Stage. Father Christmas or Santa Claus lights the big tree on November 15th at 18:00.

As night falls, the decorations become even more enchanting. The whole garden glitters with warm and festive lights!

What I love about the decorations at Tivoli is that they change every year. It’s a tradition for both Danes and tourists to visit annually because there’s always something new, unique, and innovative to discover.

Floating Planets Decoration

24 glowing “planets” float around the Hanging Garden every evening from 16:30 during the Christmas season. 

Each unique planet is crafted from laser-cut, hand-sculpted aluminum discs, creating a dynamic interplay of light and color. Watch as these reflective surfaces shift and shimmer, bringing the beauty of the universe to life in the heart of the garden.

Fireflies Decoration

Hundreds of luminous “fireflies” float gracefully in the Hanging Gardens along H.C. Andersens Boulevard.

These LED lights hover above the ground with unpredictable movements. The light installations are up every evening at 16:30, turning the area into a glowing garden.

Tivoli Gardens Christmas Market

Shopping at Christmas markets at Tivoli during Christmas is an amazing experience. Rows of wooden stalls are filled with festive goodies—cozy gift shops stocked with handmade Danish items, Christmas decor, and unique souvenirs to bring home.

From delicious treats at food stalls to thoughtful gifts for loved ones, the market has something for everyone, including the kids.

Take a stroll and soak in the festive vibes.

Did you know? The Christmas market in Tivoli Gardens is featured on CNN’s list of the world’s best Christmas markets!

Julemanden or Santa at Tivoli Gardens

Santa or Father Christmas’s house is the Open Air Stage at Tivoli Gardens, where he warmly welcomes visitors of all ages.

Personal photography is not permitted. However, You can capture a picture with Santa for DKK 80 or two pictures for DKK 150.

You can find him from November 15 to December 23, with specific times—

• Monday to Friday between 12:00-22:00 
• Saturday and Sunday, an hour early from 11:00 
• A break daily from 13.30-14.30 and 19.00-20.00

To ensure your visit, it’s best to arrive early, as lines may close up to an hour before Santa’s break.

If you’re visiting with kids, they’ll be thrilled to meet him! Take them along for this magical experience—it’s a memory they’ll cherish forever.

Did you know? If you’re a resident of Denmark, you can win gifts by participating in an elf-hunting event!

Christmas Special Shows at Tivoli Copenhagen

1. Tivoli Lake Illumination Show

Experience a stunning 10-minute illumination show where light, sound, laser, fire, smoke, and water come together, inspired by The Nutcracker and set to Tchaikovsky’s timeless music.

My favorite spot to watch? the bridge across the lake or near the Camel Trail (roller coaster).

Shows run hourly, starting at 19:30, with the last one at 23:30 on Fridays and Saturdays. On other days, the final show wraps up at 21:30.

Trust me, you don’t want to miss this magical display! And it’s FREE with Tivoli’s entrance.

2. Tivoli Christmas Animations Projection Show 

Pantomime Theatre’s ice peacock inspired the projection show in front of the Nimb Hotel and features a magical Christmas universe with an audio mix.

The show is free to watch with Tivoli’s entrance. It can be seen from 16:30 until closing daily throughout the Christmas season.

It’s a must-see during your visit, but just a heads up on the dates with exceptions—

• No animations between 17:30 and 18:15 on 13 December due to the Saint Lucy’s Day procession
• 20:45-20:55 on 25th and 26th December
• 23:00-23:10 on 31 December due to fireworks. 

Paid Christmas Shows and Musicals at Tivoli

1. The Nutcracker

Tivoli’s Concert Hall presents the classic Christmas ballet, The Nutcracker, performed alongside the Tivoli Copenhagen Phil. With 68 musicians in the orchestra pit for each performance, this orchestra elevates the experience.

With Tivoli anno 1874 as the frame, the performance lasts 2 hours and blends the Christmas charm captivating children, families, and international guests alike.

Its popularity means tickets sell out quickly, so booking in advance is highly recommended.

• Price: Starts from 240 DKK (Tivoli entrance and service fee included)
• Show Dates: November 30 – December 29
• Choreography: Peter Bo Bendixen
• Scenography and costumes: Queen Margrethe
• Tivoli Copenhagen Phil conducted by: Christian Øland

Read Next: Top tips to save money at Tivoli Gardens

2. Tinkas Christmas Adventure

A beloved Danish Christmas musical inspired by the popular Christmas calendar premiers at the Glass Hall Theatre in Tivoli.

It’s all in Danish, no English translations here! This is a Danish Christmas tradition that locals treasure.

• Price: Starts from 415 DKK (Tivoli entrance and service fee included)
• Show Dates: November 20 – December 28

3. Tivoli Garden’s Christmas Concert

Tivoli Garden’s Julekoncert is filled with pure Christmas magic for one hour. With around 100 talented Tivoli’s youth guards performing, this concert brings joy to all age groups.

Enjoy classics like Jingle Bells, Leroy Anderson’s Sleigh Ride, and excerpts from Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker. It’s the kind of music that stirs up warm, nostalgic Christmas memories. It is a must-see to spark your holiday spirit!

• Price: Starts from 90 DKK (Tivoli entrance and service fee included)
• Show Date: December 10 at 17:30

Christmas Parades at Tivoli Garden

1. Tivoli Lucia Parade

As evening sets in, on December 13, the Santa Lucia Parade begins at 17:30 from Swing Carousel to Little Tivoli. Almost 100 choirs march, each holding a candle, as they sing the Santa Lucia song and Christmas carols.

The event is a cherished tradition drawing many Danes to enjoy the festive atmosphere. The parade is free to watch with the Tivoli entrance ticket.

2. Tivoli Youth Guards Christmas Parade

Every Saturday from November 23 to December 21, at 13:30, the Tivoli youth guards march through the garden in striking red uniforms and bearskin hats, playing the festive Christmas carols.

With 90 members aged between 9 and 16, this lively procession starts and finishes at the Tivoli castle. It’s a delightful entertainment experience to watch while you are there!

All Tivoli visitors can watch it for free with a valid entrance.

Christmas Fireworks at Tivoli Gardens

The 10-minute fireworks display occurs on December 25 and 26 from 20:45-20:55 and on New Year’s Eve from 23:00-23:10.

These breathtaking fireworks are a festive highlight! Make sure you’re there to enjoy the spectacular display.

You can watch these fireworks even from outside of the Tivoli Gardens.

Ice Skating Rink at Tivoli Gardens

Located in front of the Tivoli concert hall, glide around a 350m² artificial skating rink, with a beautifully decorated Christmas tree right in the center. Ice skating at Tivoli is pure holiday magic!

The rink is made of plastic, so you must rent the skates in Tivoli which cost 60 DKK for 45 minutes. However, the skating aid and helmets are available for free.

Restaurants at Tivoli Gardens during the Christmas Season

Tivoli Gardens is a culinary delight during Christmas! Several fine-dining restaurants and cafes serve delicious meals and festive treats. Tivoli Food Hall featuring 15 food stall is also located in the premises.

Many Danish restaurants offer Julefrokost, a special three-course Christmas lunch or dinner that’s a must-try.

Besides the restaurants, several food and drink stalls can be seen as well. Don’t miss classic Danish Christmas treats like Æbleskiver (fluffy pancake balls) and Gløgg (mulled wine), available only during Christmas in Denmark.

How to Dress for Tivoli Garden’s Christmas?

Denmark’s weather in winter can be unpredictable with rain, snow, and wind making it feel colder than the forecasted temperature.

Layering is essential to stay warm, especially if you’re outdoors for extended periods. Fast amusement park rides can be chilly, so bundle up with a windproof and waterproof jacket.

To make the most of your visit, know how to dress for each season in Denmark which will help you stay comfortable and prepared for white Christmas!

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts: Christmas at Tivoli Gardens

If you’re in Copenhagen during the holidays, Tivoli is definitely a must-visit, and make sure to add it to your itinerary!

Whether you’re there to enjoy the rides, meet Santa, or simply wander through the beautifully lit gardens, Tivoli is a perfect place to welcome the festive season.

Also, check the other activities to do in Copenhagen during Christmas, in addition to the Tivoli Gardens.

So bundle up, grab a gløgg, and get ready to experience Danish Christmas like never before!