MAIN Christmas Europe Christmas in Denmark

Down the centuries, the Danish have become expert holiday revelers to illuminate the shortest, darkest days of a Danish winter.

To dispel the gloom, candles and lights are ablaze throughout the country as Christmas kicks off in early December, with the lighting of the Advent wreath - decorated with four candles that mark the four weeks preceding Christmas.

Christmas Eve is the occasion for Denmark's biggest holiday feast, starting with the traditional Julebrod, or Christmas rice pudding, bestowing a year of good luck on anyone who finds the magic almond inside.

Then comes the pork roast with cracklings, or a roast duck or goose, accompanied by a table groaning with mounds of Christmas pastries and cookies. Dinner is usually followed by caroling around the Christmas tree. Then, before bedtime, a bowl of rice pudding is carefully set out to appease the Nisse, those mischievous elves who enjoy playing practical jokes on unsuspecting children.

Around the Web, discover more Christmas customs and traditions including Christmas fairs, markets and other annual events that make up a joyous Danish holday season ...

Christmas in Copenhagen - One-stop browsing for what's happening around the Copenhagen area featuring Tivoli Gardens events, a schedule of Christmas markets, concerts & entertainment, shopping hours, plus what's on New Year's Eve.

Christmas City Break in Copenhagen - A three day self-guided tour with suggested itineraries for dining, shopping and sightseeing.

Hans Christian Andersen Christmas Fair - The annual event in Odense, the birthplace of the famous fairytale author, featuring a Christmas parade and traditional market, street caroling and related holiday entertainment and activities for kids of all ages.

Denmark - "Glædelig Jul og godt nytår" - "Merry Christmas and Happy New Year" from Denmark with a nice overview of both old and new Danish holiday customs.

Christmas in Denmark - Lovely personal account with photos of family traditions and customs observed during the holidays.

also see in Holidays -> Christmas Cookie Recipes | Christmas Party Ideas

Christmas Recipes | Christmas Trees | E-Cards

Epiphany | Holiday Planner | Music | Santa Claus

also see in Travel -> Denmark Tourist Attractions