The Best Winter Events to Enjoy in Copenhagen
It may be winter but this season is magical in Copenhagen as the run-up to Christmas is full of light and there are plenty of winter events taking place in the coming months. The famous Vinterjazz festival takes place in Copenhagen, the Adventure Film Festival (N.A.F.F) at the end of November, Copenhagen Light Festival in January and of course Tivoli Gardens Christmas Extravaganza is on until New Year.
Don't forget - To Be Hygge is to Be Happy!
Denmark does winter properly, so wrap up warm, light a few candles, and just embrace the cold weather and cosy evenings. You could be inside enjoying a warm spiced apple cider, or a hot chocolate, or wandering through the shopping area enjoying the atmosphere. It's all about being cosy and enjoying the experience. 
What's on this Winter??
Adventure Film Festival - N.A.F.F
27th-30th November 2025 (Copenhagen and Aarhus)
This is Scandinavia’s largest adventure film festival, running since 1996, and supporting local Danish filmmakers and upcoming talent to learn from each other through sharing experiences - cinema-based so check out the events here.
Vinterjazz
30 January - 28 February 2026
If you love music (or want a break from tourist-mode), Vinterjazz (the winter version of the famous summer jazz festival) runs through 30 January - 28 February 2026, bringing jazz to over 150 venues across Denmark (many in Copenhagen).
More than 600 concerts, ranging from tiny cozy cafés to larger concert halls. Some shows are free, others ticketed — and there’s enough variety to please jazz aficionados, casual music lovers, or anyone up for checking out Copenhagen's nightlife scene.
There are plenty of free events, it’s the perfect excuse to combine hostel-style budgeting with local culture!
Winter Pride
From 16–22 February 2026, the city celebrates Winter Pride - a week filled with events, debates, parties, film screenings and live shows under the banner of inclusivity and community.
Expect cultural events (films, panels, discussions), nightlife (drag shows, Pride Night Live, club parties) and a welcoming vibe perfect for solo travellers, groups, or anyone looking for a colourful, social winter experience.
Staying at our downtown hostel near the center if it all will put you close to many of the venues - an easy jump from late-night jazz to Pride dancefloor!
Tivoli Gardens Christmas Market
November 2025-4th January 2026
Holiday Magic! From 14 November 2025 to 4 January 2026 (closed on December 24) the iconic amusement park Tivoli Gardens transforms into a magical winter wonderland.
Think 60+ wooden stalls selling Danish treats and handmade gifts, snow-style rooftops, cinnamon and mulled-wine scents in the air, ice skating in front of the Concert Hall, and all the rides still open under a thousand fairy lights.
There’s also special seasonal entertainment: this year’s programme features a full-on ballet production of The Snow Queen (with costumes by the Danish queen no less), live music, and maybe fireworks if you time it right.
Nights are even more delightful. Go after dark to see the lights and decorations at their most impressive.. It’s pure holiday magic, so grab your gløgg and enjoy this unique Copenhagen experience.
Our favourite place in fall to get in the Christmas mood, Tivoli has a traditional market that opens in November along with spectacular decorations, entertainment, over 60 stalls to buy handicrafts, gifts, accessories, winter treats, and plenty of places for food and drink. It’s atmospheric and great on a sunny day or lit up after dark - your choice! You also have the added bonus of all the usual funfair rides and thrills, but we a festive atmosphere!
Copenhagen Winter Wonderland at Kongens Nytorv
Running from 14 Nov 2025 to 4 Jan 2026, this event turns the square and surrounding old-town streets into a festive Christmas Winter Wonderland!
There’s a romantic outdoor ice rink, winter market stalls run by local restaurants and bakeries - perfect for a quick ice skate session, festive snacks, mulled wine, hot chocolate, and enjoying the crowd and atmosphere under the twinkling fairy lights.
It’s a great alternative if you want a relaxed vibe rather than the more formal ticketed event at Tivoli. Easy to combine with a bar crawl or dinner out!
Copenhagen Light Festival 2026
Winter darkness gets a creative upgrade with the Copenhagen Light Festival, set for 30 January – 22 February 2026.
Over 35 light installations across architectural and historical buildings and monuments. Think canals, bridges, historic buildings, and public spaces with illuminated artwork stretching across the city. It’s a fun open-air gallery and a great way to see the city in a different way. Ideal for something artsy and atmospheric instead of loud and crowded, and some of the installations are interactive. Perfect to bring some light into those winter blues!
Stay With us at Copenhagen Downtown Hostel
Get cosy with us - we have hot chocolate to die for and delicious coffee, or get straight to it with our amazing cocktails and happy hour specials! We have events during the week, including live music from the talented Morten, games nights, DJ parties, and Fireball Friday party events. Find out about what's on by asking our amazing team! See you here!
Book direct with us for the best prices and added benefits throughout your stay. We are a member of Famous Hostels, an association of over 55 of the best hostels around Europe!