Spend New Year’s Eve in Denmark

New Year's Eve traditions

Like most traditions, Danes take New Year's Eve very seriously. Most people will dress up in their fanciest attire and start the evening either hosting a dinner or attending a friend's. The night begins at 6pm, gathering around the TV to watch the King's New Year’s speech — followed, of course, by a toast of champagne to kick things off. The night usually involves a delicious dinner, games, quizzes and general debauchery, and once midnight rolls around, certain traditions must be followed. Jumping off the sofa or a chair at the stroke of midnight to bring good luck, the eating of kransekage because, yum, and a sip of champagne before rolling out to see all the fireworks. 

But if you're already out and about, there's no rule against starting the night with a festive cocktail at one of Copenhagen’s many bars.

Make a meal of it in Copenhagen

It's Copenhagen, you've got plenty of restaurants to choose from – but, make sure to book a table well in advance. Most restaurants have special New Year's set menus, usually paired with a delicious drinks menu, so you'll be well looked after. Most clubs offer special New Year's Eve packages with entrance and an open bar included, as well as a glass of champagne and the traditional kransekage at midnight. 

Where to ring in the new year

Just before midnight, the city spills out onto the streets with glasses of champagne and...fireworks glasses. That's right, we light our own fireworks here, and we light them just about everywhere and anywhere – so be careful! Two popular spots to gather are Rådhuspladsen (City Hall Square) or Dronning Louises Bro (Queen Louise's Bridge) – a perfect spot to see the fireworks reflecting on the lakes. You can also head to Tivoli before midnight to end the year in style – with a front row seat to the fanciest firework show in town! 

Party into the night

There are tons of nightclubs and bars in Copenhagen where your party can continue well into the night. However, it's a good idea to research in advance which places are open. You can read more about some of Copenhagen's best nightclubs here.

Don't be caught short on New Year's Day

The first of January is a bank holiday in Denmark, with most cafes and restaurants staying firmly shut. Some supermarkets are open, but don't count on it – be sure to plan ahead to ensure the cosiest start to your year!