Discover the Enchanting Christmas Traditions of Denmark

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Saying "Christmas" in Danish
3. Danish Christmas Traditions
   • Celebrating on December 24th
   • Long dinner and opening presents
   • Dancing around the tree
4. Counting down to Christmas
   • Kalenderlys
   • Four candles on a candle holder
   • Naughty elves (Nisse)
   • Julekalender (Advent calendars)
5. Christmas Traditions in Denmark
   • Closure of everything on December 24th-26th
   • Cancelled Christmas markets due to coronavirus
   • Unique Christmas tree decorations
   • Use of national flag in decorations
   • Real candles in the tree
6. Conclusion

Christmas in Denmark: Traditions and Celebrations

Christmas is a joyous time of year in Denmark, filled with unique traditions and celebrations. Danish people have their own way of saying "Christmas" and have specific customs that make this holiday season truly special. In this article, we will explore the enchanting Christmas traditions in Denmark, the ways they count down to Christmas, and the unique aspects of their festive celebrations.

Saying "Christmas" in Danish

Let's start with a simple word: "Christmas." In Danish, it is called "Jul." It's a short and easy word to remember. To wish someone "Merry Christmas," you say "Glædelig Jul" (pronounced gleh-leh-lee yul). The Danish word for "Santa Claus" is "Julemanden," which can be translated as "The Christmas Man." Now that we know the basic greetings, let's dive into the Danish Christmas traditions.

Danish Christmas Traditions

Celebrating on December 24th

In Denmark, Christmas is celebrated on the evening of December 24th. It is a time for families to come together and enjoy a long dinner. The more, the merrier! Unlike in some countries where presents are opened on Christmas morning, Danish families wait until after the dinner to open their presents. This tradition adds anticipation and excitement to the evening.

Long Dinner and Opening Presents

The Danish Christmas dinner is a cherished tradition that lasts for several hours. Families gather around the dinner table, enjoying a feast of traditional dishes. After the dinner, the family members hold hands and dance around the Christmas tree while singing Christmas songs. This festive dance is a heartwarming moment that truly captures the spirit of togetherness during Christmas in Denmark.

Counting Down to Christmas

Danish people have various ways to count down and celebrate every day leading up to December 24th. One of the popular traditions is the "Kalenderlys." It is a candle that is lit every day, marking the passing days until Christmas. Another tradition involves four candles on a candle holder. The first candle is lit on the first Sunday of December, and each subsequent Sunday, another candle is added until all four are lit on the fourth Sunday.

Naughty Elves (Nisse) and Advent Calendars (Julekalender)

In Denmark, you will find mischievous elves called "Nisse" everywhere during the Christmas season. These cute and playful creatures add a touch of whimsy to the festivities. Another way of counting down to Christmas is through Advent calendars, known as "Julekalender." Unlike the traditional chocolate Advent calendars, Danish Julekalenders offer a wide range of surprises, from beauty products to alcoholic beverages, making the countdown even more exciting.

Christmas Traditions in Denmark

While some traditions are specific to the days leading up to Christmas, there are other unique customs observed during the holiday season in Denmark.

Closure on December 24th-26th

One important thing to note if you are celebrating Christmas in Denmark or visiting during the holidays is that everything is closed on December 24th, 25th, and 26th. Even supermarkets are closed during this period, so make sure to plan accordingly.

Cancelled Christmas Markets due to Coronavirus

Christmas markets are a significant part of Danish Christmas traditions. However, this year, due to the coronavirus pandemic, many of these markets have been cancelled. These markets typically run throughout December, offering a wide array of festive delights. While the situation may vary depending on the location, the focus has been on limiting social gatherings to ensure everyone's safety.

Unique Christmas Tree Decorations

One standout aspect of Christmas in Denmark is the type of decorations used for Christmas trees. Unlike in some other countries where plastic and glittery decorations are common, Danish people prefer using natural materials like wood and metal. Ceramic ornaments are also popular choices. Additionally, you will often find the Danish national flag incorporated into the Christmas tree decorations, showcasing their pride and patriotism.

Real Candles in the Tree

Another fascinating tradition is the use of real candles in the Christmas tree. Danish families sometimes opt for traditional candles to create a warm and intimate atmosphere. However, it is crucial to exercise caution and follow safety measures to prevent accidents.

Conclusion

Christmas in Denmark is a magical time filled with cherished traditions and festive celebrations. From the unique way of saying "Christmas" to the long dinner, dancing around the tree, and counting down with Kalenderlys and Julekalenders, the Danish people truly embrace the holiday spirit. The closure of everything during the holiday period, the cancellation of Christmas markets, and the use of natural materials in decorations add an extra touch of authenticity to the Danish Christmas experience. So, if you ever have the chance to celebrate Christmas in Denmark, prepare to embrace these enchanting traditions and create lifelong memories.

Resource: genbrugshallerne - Second hand store in Odense

Highlights

• Danish Christmas traditions revolve around celebrating on December 24th, a long dinner, and opening presents.
• Counting down to Christmas involves the use of advent candles and the mischievous presence of "Nisse" (naughty elves).
• Denmark offers unique Christmas tree decorations, including natural materials like wood and real candles.
• Christmas markets are a significant part of Danish traditions, but many were cancelled in 2020 due to the pandemic.
• Danish people show their patriotism by incorporating the national flag into their Christmas decorations.

FAQ

Q: What is the traditional Danish Christmas dinner like? A: The Danish Christmas dinner is a special and lengthy affair, where families gather to enjoy a feast of traditional dishes.

Q: Are real candles commonly used in Danish Christmas trees? A: Yes, some Danish families choose to use real candles in their Christmas trees to create a cozy and intimate atmosphere. However, precautions must be taken to ensure safety.

Q: What is a Julekalender, and what makes the Danish version unique? A: Julekalender is an Advent calendar. In Denmark, they come in various forms and contain surprises beyond chocolate, such as beauty products and alcoholic beverages.

Q: Are there any Christmas markets in Denmark despite the cancellations? A: The status of Christmas markets may vary depending on the location and the impact of the pandemic. It is advisable to check local updates and regulations for the most up-to-date information.

Q: What are some typical Danish Christmas decorations? A: Danish Christmas decorations often incorporate natural materials like wood and metal. The Danish national flag, ceramic ornaments, and handcrafted elements also feature prominently.

Q: Is Christmas celebrated differently in Denmark compared to other countries? A: Yes, the Danish Christmas traditions, such as celebrating on December 24th, dancing around the Christmas tree, and unique countdown customs, distinguish their celebrations from those of other countries.