Christmas in the dark

Before electric lights and blinking Christmas decorations, winter was dark, and light was something to be conserved. Experience the gradual change in lighting as you move from a brightly lit pedestrian street and journey back in time to the atmospheric, dimly lit older part of the town.

Danish Christmas traditions through time

Follow the red lanterns and discover a wealth of Christmas traditions and history. See how Christmas has been celebrated for 400 years, and step inside people’s homes to learn how they have been decorated throughout history.

Fun for little elves

Do you believe in elves or humans? Visit Koglekjøbing for a fairytale Christmas experience or explore the elf attic where the furniture is magical and turns all children into little elves.

Have a taste of Danish Christmas

Treat yourself to food and Christmas crunch from the stalls. Try liquid and round apple slices, wild boar sausages and vanilla wreaths and wash it down with Den Gamle By's Christmas beer or glögg.

Meet the town’s residents

Meet the town’s residents, servants and shop staff on your journey back in time through Christmas traditions. Have a chat with the postman, the kitchen maid and the barrel organ player about Christmas traditions and life at Christmas in the market towns. 

Christmas presents with a history

Delight your nearest and dearest with a historical Christmas present which can only be purchased in Den Gamle By. Take a look at the wide range of historical Christmas decorations, posters, jewellery, toys, books, sweets and traditional beers.