Christmas in Copenhagen: 15 Unique Things To Do In 2025

Christmas in Copenhagen is a bucket-list experience for many people visiting Denmark.

If you are visiting this holiday season and wondering what to do in Copenhagen during Christmas, you have come to the right place. 

There are so many places to visit and experience, from Christmas markets to traditional Danish Christmas cuisines during this time of year.

I have experienced the city’s Christmas celebrations firsthand and can tell you that, you’ll feel the magic in every corner of the city. There’s something truly special about Copenhagen at Christmas. And well, the best time to experience “hygge”!

I have listed the top things to do in Copenhagen during Christmas, from must-visit spots to special events to make your holiday trip unforgettable.

Ready to experience Copenhagen during the festive Christmas season? Let’s dive in!

1. J Day

J Day, or the festival of beer, is the first event that kickstarts the Danish Christmas. On J Day, the first Friday of November at 21:00, Turbog (part of Carlsberg) releases the Christmas beer called Julebryg.

It is a big Christmas event where most Danes rush to get the first taste of the Julebryg of the year.

Curious to know where J Day is celebrated in Denmark and how you can be a part of the festival? Read the detailed blog to know everything about J Day!

2. Christmas Procession at Amagerbrogade

Juleoptoget på Amagerbrogade or the Christmas procession at Amagerbrogade, is an annual event started in 1969. Since then, it has become a beloved Christmas tradition in Denmark. It is held on the fourth Saturday of November every year.

The longest Christmas parade starts from the corner of Gyldenrisvej and Amagerbrogade at 16:03, and ends at the Christmas Møllers Plads, over 1 Km. The procession takes at least 2 hours from start to finish.

The streets come alive with Christmas garlands and festive lights! The parade moves along on foot and wheels, featuring over 1,000 participants and hundreds of unique vehicles.

You’ll see vintage cars, bicycles, Christmas marching bands, Disney and Star Wars characters, Santas, cheerleaders, firefighters, sports clubs, and more—all accompanied by lively music.

You should watch the parade and wave to all the cool kids at the Amagerbrogade Christmas parade event. The parade fosters a sense of community and togetherness. About 60,000 people gather to witness the event.

Gear up guys, it is going to be crowded!

Read Next: Top things to do in winter in Copenhagen?

3. See the Christmas Tree getting Illuminated

On the first Sunday of Advent December, the lighting event of the largest Juletræ (Christmas tree) in Denmark takes place in front of the Copenhagen City Hall Square or Rådhushaven.

The event begins with a lively parade and festive Christmas music. As the sun sets, Julemanden (Santa Claus) climbs up the fire truck ladder, and with a countdown, he waves his wand, turning on the lights from the top, instantly lighting up the Christmas tree.

The streets are decorated with strings of hanging lights connecting either end and a glowing heart perfectly centered in the middle.

The crowd erupts in cheers as a choir and orchestra fill the air with festive tunes through large speakers. It is an exciting way to kick off the Christmas season in Copenhagen.

Watching it for the first time was a completely new and memorable experience for me. I’m always in awe of how traditions truly lift the Christmas spirit.

Check out my full guide on what to do in Copenhagen in December for more events and winter activities to add to your trip.

4. Watch the Santa Lucia Parade

Every year on December 13th, the Santa Lucia Parade street processions take place at Tivoli Gardens and Lucia I Kajak in the Copenhagen canals. Saint Lucia Day is an important day in Scandinavia. First started in Sweden and spread to Denmark in 1944.

The kayaks are decorated with lights and garlands. The lead girl is highlighted from the rest by wearing a crown of candles on her head.

The Lucia in Kayak parade starts at the Kayak Republic/ Kayak Bar at 17:00 and goes via Christianshavn, Blox, and Højbro Plads, and ends where they started. The entire parade takes about 2 hours and ends at 18:45 or 19:00.

The kayakers will sing Christmas carols in Nyhavn, Christianshavn, and by Højbro Plads.

I witnessed the whole event and was delighted to see something like it for the first time. If you are around, you should definitely see it for yourself to experience the best Copenhagen Christmas.

5. Explore the Copenhagen Christmas Markets

Whether you’re hunting for hand-crafted Christmas gifts, tasting traditional Danish delicacies, or simply soaking up the festive atmosphere, Copenhagen’s Christmas markets have it all!

Open from mid-November to a week before Christmas, the Christmas markets are free to visit and are spread across the city.

Stroll through the five best Christmas markets in Copenhagen for a unique experience. I head there every year, too! It’s just one of those traditions that I can’t miss.

Did you know? Christmas in Denmark is celebrated on 24th December, the Christmas Eve. The big celebrations are on the 24th, not the 25th as in many countries.

6. Visit the Tivoli Gardens

Tivoli Gardens, the world’s second oldest amusement park opened in 1843, is decorated in grandeur every year for the Christmas season with over 50,000 Christmas baubles and 1000s of Christmas trees. The entire amusement park is illuminated with light displays, turning night into day.

You can’t leave Copenhagen during Christmas without visiting the Tivoli Gardens. It is one of the must-visit places to visit during Christmas. The kids will just love it!

I have visited Tivoli Gardens during all the seasons, but Christmas is truly magnificent and deserves a visit.

Did you know? They also sell yearly passes to Tivoli Gardens which allows you to visit all year round

Among the two entrances, enter from the main entrance for a beautiful corridor welcome. You can meet Julemanden (Santa) and Nisse (elf) at the Tivoli Gardens Christmas village.

The Christmas season at Tivoli always has special events, performances, fireworks, and more. Download the Tivoli app to get the latest updates and don’t miss them.

If you want to soak in the festive vibes, go during the sunset hours to see how the amusement park transforms into a fairy night.

Buy a Copenhagen card to access Tivoli Gardens for FREE.

7. Buy Christmas Gifts for Loved Ones

Buying gifts for Christmas is a tradition among Danes. They exchange gifts on Christmas Eve, the 24th of December.

Unlike in the US, the Danes don’t expect creative or personalized gifts. So, you don’t need to stress too much about finding the perfect gift. They generally appreciate something simple.

The kids in Denmark love Lego blocks while the adults love porcelain from Royal Copenhagen and a Juleøl (Christmas Beer).

Read: 10 Amazing Danish Christmas gifts to buy this season in Denmark!

The Christmas market also boasts a lot of handwoven mittens and socks, hand-carved wood and ceramics with traditional Danish patterns, cute souvenirs for you to take back home, and more.

8. Treat Yourself with Special Danish Christmas Delicacies

I love Denmark, especially during Christmas. Ah, the aroma of the roasted and caramelized almonds, and Gløgg (mulled wine) fills the air.

During the Christmas season, you’ll find a variety of special Danish foods that are only available at this time of year. Even Danish breweries like Tuborg and Carlsberg get into the festive spirit by releasing limited-edition Christmas beers each year on J Day, and the Danes absolutely love them!

Here are some of the Danish delicacies you must try during the Christmas season. You can find them in many restaurants, shops, and at the Christmas markets.

• Gløgg, spiced alcoholic mulled wine(Say ‘skål’ when you toast, pronounced as ‘Skol’)
• Æbleskiver, Danish pancake balls with jam and powdered sugar
• Pebernødder, Danish Christmas cookies
• Brændte Mandler, roasted and caramelized almonds

‘Julefrokost’, is a Danish Christmas Lunch, usually shared with loved ones. The meal often features a lot of roasted pork, duck or goose, caramelized potatoes, red cabbage, and ends with Risalamande, a Christmas dessert. And of course, plenty of drinking, often involving schnaps or aquavit.

Reserve a table at a restaurant in advance, and the Danish Christmas lunch usually takes about 2-3 hours. It is one of the best things to do in Copenhagen at Christmas .

Did you know? Christmas in Denmark is a family event. Most of the shops and workplaces are closed between 24th and 26th December, except Tivoli Gardens.

9. Watch the Copenhagen Christmas Cabaret

Christmas Cabaret is a famous theatrical experience in Copenhagen. Special shows are performed during the Christmas season at Det Kongelige Teater (The Royal Playhouse and The Old Stage) and at Tivoli Gardens (Glass Hall and London Toast Theatre). 

I guarantee you so much laughter and holiday cheer. The artists are the experts in the field and are so passionate and experienced. Book your tickets online in advance and enjoy the show.

Tip: The tickets to the shows at Tivoli Gardens include entry to the Tivoli Gardens as well. You need not buy separate entry tickets.

Watching a Christmas Cabaret will add to a unique experience in Denmark during Christmas.

Alternatively, you can go to Wallman’s Christmas show, combined with a special Christmas dinner, for ultimate evening fun.

10. Chase the Christmas Lights

Christmas lights and decorations in Copenhagen are spread across the city. One of the must-do activities is to see the enchanting Christmas lights.

The streets are lined with hanging stars, glowing reindeer, and festive market stalls that light up after sunset. Every corner of Copenhagen glows with festive charm.

So gear up, grab a hot drink, and wander through the seven best spots that capture the best Christmas lights and decorations, which are nothing short of magical during this season!

11. See the Iconic Danish Christmas Tables at Royal Copenhagen

A must-see Christmas tradition in Copenhagen is the annual Royal Copenhagen Christmas Tables exhibition.

Held every year since 1963 at the Royal Copenhagen Flagship Store, it showcases beautifully styled Christmas tables using elegant porcelain, figurines, and festive decorations.

Each table follows a different theme and highlights unique Danish Christmas traditions—I always leave feeling inspired to decorate my own home.

The exhibition opens on November 18 on the store’s 2nd floor and runs until December 31.

While you’re there, don’t miss to buy the famous Royal Copenhagen Christmas Plates—a classic Danish souvenir to cherish.

Read Next: Amazing things you shouldn’t miss in Copenhagen during winter

12. Relax and Enjoy the Christmas Jazz Cruise

Hop on a unforgettable Copenhagen canal cruise with the Stromma’s Christmas Jazz Cruise and glide through the Copenhagen canals and harbour while listening to live jazz and soaking in the Christmas atmosphere.

These special cruises run on Sundays and select Thursdays in November and December.

The one-hour Jazz canal tour starts from colourful Nyhavn harbour and is priced at 239 DKK per person.

If you are visiting Copenhagen for the first time, there is no better way to experience Copenhagen Christmas from the waters with Jazz music.

• Sunday, November 23 at 15:30 – Zebrass
• Sunday, November 30 at 15:30 – Scandinvian Rhythm Boys
• Sunday, December 7 at 15:30 – Henning Munk & Plumperne
• Thursday, December 11 at 17:00 – Doc Houlind
• Sunday, December 14 at 15:30 – Margarita & Mr. Mike Swingtet
• Thursday, December 18 at 17:00 – Basement Jazzband
• Sunday, December 21 at 15:30 – Nettobanden

Do not worry about the weather. The boats are heated and covered, keeping you warm and dry in rain and cold winter weather. You are welcome to bring your drinks onboard!

13. Watch the Christmas Facade Unveiling at Hotel d’Angleterre

One of the most magical Christmas traditions in Copenhagen is the grand unveiling of the Hotel d’Angleterre Christmas facade at Kongens Nytorv. Every year, the iconic hotel transforms into a glowing work of art.

This year’s ceremony takes place on 14th November at 16:45, with the beautiful voices of the Copenhagen Boys Choir singing classic Christmas carols.

It’s a popular event, so you’ll see plenty of Danes and locals gathering to enjoy the moment.

And if you’re visiting during the holidays, remember that Hotel d’Angleterre—established in 1755—is also one of the best places to stay at Christmas, with every corner reflecting festive elegance and seasonal charm.

14. Watch the Nutcracker Ballet Show

For pure Copenhagen Christmas magic, watching the Dane’s most beloved Nutcracker ballet is a must.

This story, originally written by E.T.A. Hoffmann in 1816 and transformed into a ballet in 1892, follows young Marie, who receives a present on Christmas Eve. When the clock strikes midnight, she’s swept into a world of twinkling snowflakes, mischievous mice, sugar fairies, and enchanting Christmas dreams.

This Copenhagen production features talented children from the Royal Danish Theatre’s Ballet School and other ballet schools across the country. It’s the perfect way to wrap yourself in the festive spirit.

The two-hour show runs from 21 November to 21 December 2025 at the Royal Playhouse and The Old Stage, Copenhagen and is recommended for kids 6 and up.

Tickets start at 165 DKK, with 50% off for children under 12 and 40% off for youth under 25.

What is open in Copenhagen on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day?

Most Copenhagen attractions close on December 24th, 25th, and 26th for the Christmas holidays as Danes celebrate Christmas with their family.

The Copenhagen Zoo, Den Blå Planet Aquarium, Viking Ship Museum, and Experimentarium are a few attractions open during the Christmas holidays. Tivoli Gardens is closed only on the 24th and open on the 25th–26th.

If you’re travelling with kids, Ikono and The Tube are worth checking out.

For the complete list of attractions open during the Christmas holidays, check here.

Christmas Events in Copenhagen

Here is a list of unique Christmas events in Copenhagen that take place every year during November and December. Don’t miss them if you are visiting Denmark during the holiday season.

1. J Day – Beer festival celebrations in Copenhagen and all across Denmark
2. Lucia in Kayak parade in the Copenhagen Canals.
3. Christmas Procession at Amagerbrogade
4. See Denmark’s largest Christmas Tree getting Illuminated
5. Hotel D’ Angleterre facade Christmas decor reveal

Copenhagen Christmas Weather

The weather in Copenhagen changes abruptly during winter. You can expect occasional rain showers, snowfall, and sometimes even fewer hours of sunlight throughout the day.

The temperature in Denmark during November and December ranges from 0℃ to 10℃. The daylight is less, and the temperature dips as it gets darker.

Layer up and be prepared for the cold nights. Make sure to pack the essentials – rainproof jackets, gloves, scarves, winter boots, and thermals to make yourself warm and comfortable while exploring.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts: Things to Do at Christmas in Copenhagen

Christmas in Copenhagen starts early in mid-November and lasts longer until the New Year. Many events take place throughout the season, and not just on Christmas Day.

Now that you have a list of things to do in Copenhagen at Christmas at your fingertips, have a wholesome Danish Christmas and make the most out of your holidays!

On the day of Christmas, I recommend you to visit the Tivoli Gardens for the best festive experience.

Looking for more activities to do in winter in Copenhagen? Check out Ice Skating and skiing in Denmark.