Copenhagen New Year’s Eve: Best Places To Watch Fireworks

Wondering how to celebrate New Year’s Eve in Copenhagen? From spectacular fireworks to buzzing street parties, the city comes alive in ways that are hard to forget. But as exciting as it sounds, navigating the crowds and knowing the best spots can be tricky. 

That’s where I come in—having celebrated New Year’s Eve in Copenhagen myself, I can guide you on exactly where to go when to go, and what to expect.

Whether you’re searching for the best parties, dazzling fireworks, or prefer a more low-key evening, Copenhagen New Year’s Eve celebrations have something for everyone to ring in.

Keep reading for all the tips you need for the best New Year’s Eve in Copenhagen!

New Year’s Eve Fireworks Show in Copenhagen

The people go crazy for the New Year fireworks. The fireworks are literally everywhere you turn in the heart of Copenhagen until 2 AM or 3 AM.

Here are the five best spots to watch Nytårsfyrværkeri or New Year fireworks in Copenhagen.

1. City Hall Square, Rådhuspladsen

City Hall Square is the best place in Copenhagen to celebrate the New Year with a countdown.

When the clock at the City Hall tower strikes midnight, the bell rings, and the fireworks fill the sky abundantly (although fireworks start in late evenings). In addition to the fireworks display by the government, the people burst their firecrackers. The entire atmosphere turns smokey with crackers everywhere.

Many people who prefer staying home, tune in to the national TV channels to watch the City Hall celebrations.

The best fireworks show and unlimited fun are guaranteed at the City Hall Square. You get to see a lot of singing, dancing, and kissing on the streets. Drunk locals and tourists have fun jumping over the crackers and throwing crackers at one another. However, be careful and watch from a safe distance!

I spent my very first New Year’s Eve in Copenhagen at City Hall Square, and it was such a memorable experience. It’s always buzzing with excitement, and the fireworks are incredible!

2. Tivoli Fireworks

At the last hour of the year at 23:00, Tivoli Garden’s fireworks start. All the visitors inside and the people outside the amusement park enjoy the illuminating night sky.

Thousands of people gather to watch the Tivoli fireworks. Stand near Axel Tower, opposite the entrance of Tivoli to have a great view of the vibrant fireworks exploding above Tivoli.

It is much safer to see the fireworks at Tivoli Gardens, especially if you have kids.

3. Dronning Luises Bro

Another popular New Year’s Eve place to watch the fireworks is Dronning Louises Bro Bridge in Nørrebro. Located close to the city center, you can catch all the fireworks in Copenhagen from this vantage point.

The three Copenhagen lakes of Peblinge Sø, Sortedams Sø, and Sankt Jørgens Sø beam with firework lights getting reflected on the water.

Similar to city hall, the people go crazy at Nørrebro as well. It is fun to watch but some people feel it is too much of a celebration when compared to other European countries.

The Danes and the locals usually walk in the city center to get a glimpse of all the fireworks happening around. Well, it’s no fun to be in one place, right?!

Did you know? You can buy fireworks in Denmark, only from 15-31 December and it can be used only on December 31 and January 1 as per new rules. Also, it is forbidden to burst the firecrackers on other days in Denmark.

4. Copenhagen Harbour & Copenhagen Opera House

If you want to enjoy the Copenhagen fireworks in a much quieter place without the crazy young crowd, Copenhagen Harbour and Copenhagen Opera House are your spots.

5. Rooftop Terrace and Hotel Rooms

The smartest way to enjoy fireworks is from the rooftop terrace or the window/ balcony of your hotel room. It is the safest and most comfortable setting for the family, kids, elderly, or anyone seeking a quieter experience!

These elevated spaces provide stunning views of the fireworks without the stress of navigating through large crowds. Check this list of the best New Year’s Eve hotels that provide special views to see the best Copenhagen Fireworks.

Special New Year’s Eve Events – King’s Speech

At 18:00, The King of Denmark, HM King Frederik X gives his annual New Year’s speech at Amalenborg Palace. This event is live-streamed on television.

Every household in Denmark turns on the TV to listen to his speech. It is a Danish tradition that has been followed for years. He recaps the past year’s major events, addresses key issues or challenges, shares important announcements, and also extends warm wishes and hopes for a prosperous New Year. This 10-minute speech always ends with “Gud Bevare Danmark” (God Protect Denmark)!

New Year’s Eve Dinner in Copenhagen

On New Year’s Eve, many restaurants in Copenhagen are closed and the open fine dining restaurants accept guests only with advance booking.

To enjoy a delightful dining experience on New Year’s Eve, check out the best restaurants in Copenhagen offering special menus and festive atmospheres to ring in the new year!

The Danish New Year Cake, Kransekage (wreath cake) is a must-try dessert during the Danish New Year’s Eve celebrations. Decorated with Danish flags, it is a marzipan-based multi-layered cake.

If you are a tourist, buy a takeaway box at any of the restaurants in Copenhagen and enjoy it.

New Year’s Eve Parties in Copenhagen

It is a tradition of the Danish people to wear costumes on the New Year Parties. They wear silly hats, goggles, or anything fancy.

In addition to the ultimate street celebrations at the City Hall Square in Copenhagen, numerous New Year’s Eve special parties take place across the city. Many waterfront bars are open as well. 

Finding a restaurant to walk in directly on New Year’s Eve may be difficult. So, make sure to buy the tickets or reserve them in advance. Also, be aware that prices are always higher during this time of the year.

Check out the other activities to do in Copenhagen in January!

Celebrating New Year’s Eve With Locals in Denmark

Danes usually invite close friends or family to their home on the New Year’s Eve. The Danish tradition is to watch the King’s New Year’s speech followed by eating dinner with a lot of fish, champagne, and Kransekage dessert. 

They usually watch 90th Birthday or Dinner For One, a comedy sketch at 23:40 and the city hall countdown at 00:00. Alternatively, some also watch the Danes singing the national songs in a choir.

The younger crowd usually heads outside with their friends to watch the fireworks and have some fun.

Danes are usually quite mindful of the environmental impact that fireworks can have. Plus, with many families owning dogs that get scared of the noise, most people prefer celebrating indoors to keep things calm and cozy.

To join a local house party, search for “Festen og Gæsten” on Facebook. A lot of private groups pop up on the search results. People in the FB group usually invite others over to their homes, and if you’re interested, you can easily join in one of their gatherings.

Also, note that the old group becomes inactive and a new group is created each year. It is also the best way to make some local friends in Denmark.

Attractions to Visit in Copenhagen on New Year’s Day

New Year is a public holiday in Denmark. Danes like to spend their holiday with their family and friends. So, many restaurants and shops are closed on New Year’s Day.

Only a few attractions are open to visitors. On New Year’s Day, you can visit Tivoli Gardens for the vibrant lights and festive atmosphere, Nyhavn, Amalienborg Palace, the Little Mermaid Statue, Rosenborg Castle, and the National Museum of Denmark (Nationalmuseet).

Is Copenhagen worth visiting during the New Year?

Yes! The fireworks are insane in Copenhagen on New Year’s Eve. Once the sun sets in the evening, the sky is lit with fireworks. People go crazy shouting Godt nytår to everyone.

On New Year’s Eve, several events and parties take place all across Copenhagen. And don’t miss tasting the Danish New Year special cake, “Kransekage” (wreath cake).

 You should definitely visit Copenhagen at least once during the New Year!

Where to Stay in Copenhagen on New Year’s Eve?

Choosing the right place to stay can elevate the entire experience. Copenhagen offers a range of accommodation options near the city center.

Stay in the prime location near the Tivoli Gardens, Nyhavn, or City Hall Square. You’ll be just steps away from the lively street parties and fireworks. Metro is fast and convenient for commuting to different places in the city.

For something quieter but still central, stay in the neighborhoods of Vesterbro or Østerbro.

Check out the hotels in Copenhagen to stay on New Year’s Eve that offer the best views of the colorful sky!

Copenhagen New Year’s Eve Travel Tips

1. Book Early

Book your accommodation and New Year’s Eve dinner parties at least a couple of weeks or even a month in advance. The fine dining restaurants get booked months before!

2. Transportation

Use public transportation on New Year’s Eve celebrations. Avoid parking your bike, car, or any vehicle in the city center to avoid firework damage.

3. Clothing

Winters in Denmark are typically cold and damp, so it’s essential to layer up to stay warm. The weather is also unpredictable with occasional rain showers, so it’s a good idea to wear a waterproof jacket and shoes.

4. Safety

While Denmark is generally considered safe, the atmosphere on New Year’s Eve is very chaotic. Although there are frequent police patrols in the city, it is better to stay cautious and protect yourself while enjoying the festivities.

Wear protective glasses if you are planning to watch New Year in the City Hall square (Rådhuspladsen).

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts: New Year’s Eve Celebrations in Copenhagen

The New Year’s Eve in Copenhagen is filled with celebrations and traditions. The Danes welcome the New Year with energy, excitement, and positivity.

I’ve enjoyed the vibe each year surrounded by welcoming locals and tourists – the cheers, the music, and the midnight countdown is magical.

Be sure to dress warm, stay safe, and make the most of this spectacular night!

Godt nytår! (Happy Near Year!)