The Best Cultural Events in Denmark Every Year

Every year, there are numerous vibrant cultural events in Denmark in the spheres of art, culture, music, literature and film. Many of these are Copenhagen events, while others can be found throughout the country in cities like Roskilde and Herning. From important events in Denmark for design-lovers, to the best events for music aficionados, there’s something for everyone.

So what are the highlights, what can you expect at each one, and when do they take place? Whether you’re a culture enthusiast or simply looking for some entertainment, we’ll explain which Danish cultural events are worthwhile, why, and when to plan your trip.

Here are the best cultural events happening in Denmark every year, from documentary festivals to art fairs to literature festivals:

CPH:DOX

Get ready to be blown away by CPH:DOX, Scandinavia’s leading documentary film festival and one of the world’s largest. For 20 years, this festival has brought together film lovers from around the globe to celebrate the best Danish and international documentary films, ranging from the works of major international directors to up-and-coming talent and films that you won’t find in cinemas or on TV screens.

The festival celebrates the documentary film genre as a true art form and features ten jam-packed days of films, events, talks, music, and more.

Regular tickets cost just DKK 100 and can be purchased online or at the venue. Don’t miss out on this inspiring event!

CPH:DOX

Festival takes place in theatres across Copenhagen

When?

CPH:DOX is typically in mid-March.

Art Herning

As the first major art event of the year in Denmark, Art Herning showcases the best of Denmark’s leading galleries and boasts a stunning collection of hundreds of works from various artistic genres.

Every January, the charming town of Herning in Jutland becomes a mecca for art lovers and collectors alike, who come from all over Denmark and beyond to enjoy the displayed works.

Whether you’re searching for the perfect piece to take home or simply seeking inspiration, Art Herning is the place to be.

Art Herning

MCH Herning Kongrescenter
Østergade 37
7400 Herning

When?

Art Herning typically takes place end of January.

Heartland Festival

Located in the stunning and magical surroundings of Egeskov on the island Funen, Heartland is for everyone who loves music, art, talks, and food. Held annually in June, the culture festival brings together contemporary culture, live talks, modern art, and the best in music and cuisine.

It’s a unique experience that fosters a sense of community through shared cultural and culinary encounters, all within an extraordinary place. Get ready to enjoy a truly unforgettable festival that’s sure to leave you feeling inspired and rejuvenated.

Heartland Festival

Egeskov Slot
Egeskov Gade 22
5772 Kværndrup

When?

Heartland Festival typically takes place in early June.

3daysofdesign

What started as a small design event held in an old warehouse in Nordhavn in 2013 is now the most significant annual design event in Scandinavia. 3daysofdesign offers an incredible platform to celebrate great design, with showrooms, exhibitions, workshops, and design talks all available to you free of charge.

Happening every June, the event exhibits over 200 design brands from all over the world.

Don’t miss out on the pop-ups and parties hosted by beloved and up-and-coming design and lifestyle brands – this is the perfect opportunity to connect with like-minded enthusiasts and be inspired by the latest trends and styles in the world of design and interior.

3daysofdesign

Festival takes place in locations across Copenhagen

When?

3 Days of Design typically takes place in early June.

A Guide to 3 Days of Design: Copenhagen’s Biggest Design Event

Roskilde Festival

In the post-Summer of Love days of 1971, a pair of high-school students started a festival. Today, Roskilde Festival is the largest culture and music festival in Northern Europe. Every year, it attracts more than 130,000 festival-goers with its impressive line-up of around 175 musicians, taking place over eight days and two weekends. But the music is not all there is to experience.

The festival’s art and activism program features everything from talks by young climate activists to art performances and trips to gather flowers and herbs for drinks. And let’s not forget about the delicious food.

Roskilde Festival truly is a one-of-a-kind event. If the full eight-day experience is not for you, you can also purchase a one-day ticket.

Roskilde Festival

Festivalpladsen
Darupvej 19
4000 Roskilde

When?

Roskilde Festival usually takes place in late June – early July.

Want more Roskilde festival? See our annual coverage.

Louisiana Literature Festival

Does the idea of immersing yourself in great literature for four days at one of the world’s most beautiful museums sound enticing? If so, Louisiana Literature Festival is the perfect event for you. Each year, this festival celebrates authors from all around the globe, offering a stage to discuss their works.

Alongside literary events, you can also enjoy music, art, Louisiana’s stunning architecture, and the idyllic surroundings of Denmark’s coast. So, come and be inspired by the power of literature and the beauty of Louisiana – this is an experience that you won’t want to miss!

Louisiana Literature Festival

Louisiana Museum of Modern Art
Gl Strandvej 13
3050 Humlebæk

When?

Louisiana Literature Festival is typically in mid to late August.

Copenhagen Fashion Week (CPHFW)

As the leading Nordic biannual fashion event, Copenhagen Fashion Week is the ultimate destination for fashion enthusiasts and industry leaders. Taking place in January/February and August each year, Copenhagen Fashion Week invites the fashion community to four days of shows and events, alongside the two trade shows, CIFF and Revolver.

Not only do renowned brands like Ganni, Cecilie Bahnsen, and Stine Goya showcase their sense of Scandinavian style during the week, but you can also expect to be inspired by the collections of the most up-and-coming designers and talents.

Copenhagen Fashion Week

In locations throughout Copenhagen

When?

Copenhagen Fashion Week usually takes place in late Jan/early Feb (Autumn-Winter season) and early August (Spring-Summer season).

Can’t get enough of Danish fashion? Find out more about Denmark’s sartorial scene.

CHART Art Fair

Are you ready to be inspired by the artistic magic of the Nordics? Look no further than CHART Art Fair, a three-day event of contemporary art and culture that takes place every August at Charlottenborg in the heart of Copenhagen. CHART showcases the works presented by the most promising galleries in Scandinavia – incredible art that’s sure to leave you inspired. And that’s not all! The annual art book fair, as well as a variety of talks, performances, installations, films, and DJ sets, make CHART Art Fair an unmissable event for anyone with a passion for creativity and culture. At CHART, art and community unite to create an unforgettable experience.

CHART Art Fair

Kongens Nytorv 1
1050 København

When?

CHART Art Fair is typically in late August

Enter Art Fair

Get ready to immerse yourself in a vibrant world of contemporary art from across the globe at Enter Art Fair, the top international art fair in Copenhagen. This exciting event welcomes art enthusiasts and collectors alike to discover and experience the works of diverse and talented artists.

Held annually in August, Enter Art Fair goes beyond the norm by combining a physical fair with a cutting-edge digital experience, revolutionising the traditional way we appreciate art.

So whether you’re an art lover or a curious visitor, step into the exciting world of Enter Art Fair and discover the beauty and diversity of its showcased contemporary art.