Christmas in Copenhagen with kids
Christmas is a special time to visit Copenhagen with kids, with festive fun in Tivoli Gardens, ice skating, Christmas markets and Danish traditions to enjoy as a family. Here are some of the best things to do with kids in Copenhagen at Christmas.
Christmas is a wonderful time to experience Copenhagen as a family. The city takes on a different feel during the festive season, with lights in the streets and plenty of Christmas experiences to enjoy together, both indoors and outdoors. This guide focuses on Christmas in Copenhagen with kids, from amusement parks and ice skating to markets, creative activities and traditions.
If you want to dive deeper into the season, explore our guide to Christmas in Copenhagen. And if your family trip goes beyond Christmas, you can find even more inspiration in our Copenhagen with kids guide.
Christmas in Copenhagen’s amusement parks
Christmas is also celebrated at Copenhagen’s two amusement parks, Tivoli Gardens and Bakken. Christmas in Tivoli runs from 13 November 2026 to 3 January 2027, where families can walk among Christmas stalls, visit Santa and enjoy the rides, including seasonal attractions such as the Elf Train and Forest Carousel. At Bakken, Christmas takes place every weekend from 21 November to 20 December 2026, with rides, games and seasonal activities such as ice skating, as well as Christmas experiences aimed at younger children.
Want to explore more? Take a closer look at Christmas at Tivoli and Bakken on their own Christmas pages.
Enjoy Christmas activities in the streets of Copenhagen
There are plenty of ways to experience Christmas while exploring Copenhagen. Lace up your skates at one of the city’s outdoor ice rinks, wander between stalls at the Christmas markets, or simply take in the lights and decorations along the way.
And if you are in Copenhagen on 13 December, look out for the annual Saint Lucia kayak parade. Every year, decorated kayaks covered in Christmas lights take to the canals, with paddlers singing traditional Lucia songs along the route.
Get creative with Christmas gifts
Need a break from the cold? Head indoors for a creative afternoon and make your own Christmas gifts. At Creative Space, you can paint your own pottery, which is then glazed and fired, while SMYKBAR lets you design your own jewellery using beads, stones and charms. Both offer creative options for children, making them an easy addition to a family Christmas day in Copenhagen.
Christmas activities for families beyond Copenhagen
For a Christmas trip beyond Copenhagen, head to Dragør, where families can explore Christmas markets and seasonal activities throughout December.
Stop by the Christmas market for treats such as æbleskiver, or visit the Christmas Exhibition at the Dutch Farms to discover Danish Christmas traditions from past and present. The Christmas guide also includes hands-on activities for families, making it easy to combine a christmas daytrip to Dragør with something for the kids.
More Christmas events in Copenhagen
Looking for more things to do with the family? Explore our event calendar for Christmas events and activities happening around Copenhagen.
Practical tips for families
December days in Copenhagen are short and cold, so warm layers, waterproof outerwear and comfortable shoes are useful when spending the day outside with kids. Plan a mix of outdoor Christmas activities and indoor stops, especially if you are travelling with younger children.
If you are visiting over Christmas itself, it is particularly important to plan ahead, as opening hours vary from 24 to 26 December. You can find a dedicated overview of what's open and what to do from 24 to 28 December here. Always check the attraction’s own website before visiting, as opening hours may change.
Tip: If you are bringing a stroller, check accessibility information for individual attractions and activities before setting out.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is Copenhagen good for kids at Christmas?
Yes. Copenhagen has a range of Christmas activities for families, including amusement parks, ice skating, Christmas markets and seasonal events. If you are visiting around 24–26 December, remember to check opening hours in advance.
Is Tivoli open at Christmas?
Yes. Christmas in Tivoli runs from 13 November 2026 to 3 January 2027, with Christmas stalls, rides and seasonal activities for families. Read more about Christmas in Tivoli here.
What can kids do in Copenhagen in December?
Kids can go ice skating, explore Christmas markets, experience Christmas in Tivoli and at Bakken, watch the Lucia kayak parade and discover Danish Christmas traditions. Families can also take a Christmas trip to nearby Dragør for markets and seasonal activities.
