At the beginning of December I spent two weeks in Copenhagen, Denmark as a delegate at the United Nations climate negotiations. And while much of my time over there was consumed by the most important conference in the history of the world, I tried to explore the city as much as possible. My adventuring brought me to many places in and out of the city and despite the massive amount of activity going on in Copenhagen, I managed not to get arrested.
In Denmark, there’s this thing called hygge, which as my Danish friend explains is the embodiment of coziness. I was conveniently in Copenhagen during Christmas time when hygge-ness is at its peak due to low temperatures and general merriment. Hygge is many different things, but as I’ve gathered it, the following things represent it well: candles, pillows, blankets, stoves, tea, and warmth. If you understand hygge, I’d wager you understand a lot about Danish culture.
Beyond hygge I also had the chance to see some great music. I love bass, so naturally, I am drawn to dubstep. My love for dubstep music led me to the M.S. Stubnitz, an 80 meter long ship that travels throughout Scandinavia hosting parties.
The ship was converted into a mobile venue for music and art exhibitions and has been traveling since 1992 showcasing various acts. The look of the boat is much the same as if it was still a functioning boat but has been outfitted with multiple bars and giant speakers capable of blowing your ears off.
I was lucky enough to be aboard the Stubnitz when dubstep DJs were showing off their craft. The heavy bass was capable of shaking the rust off of the old pipes lining the sides of the ship. And the dance floor became a sweaty community faster than I’ve ever witnessed before in a music venue. Danes of all ages danced together as the music blared long into the morning. If ever in Scandinavia, definitely check Stubnitz out.
I also spent a good amount of time wandering around Christiania, a self-proclaimed autonomous community within Copenhagen. It’s basically a giant commune where just under 1,000 Danes live. Because of its autonomous status, citizens are allowed to engage in activities that are illegal elsewhere. Most notably, the graffiti is mindblowing and pot and hash are legal. The Moonfisher Cafe has incredible hot chocolate. Also, the Christmas market is top notch and highly recommended.
Though my time in Copenhagen was brief, I would have to wager that I saw an unbelievable amount based on the length of my stay. I protested outside in my underwear, spoke to world leaders about climate change, ate some amazing food (the names of which I can’t pronounce), and definitely experienced hygge. Copenhagen is where it’s at and I plan on visiting again as soon as possible.
Happy hygge in these cold times.
The stubnitz is a great venue! Entertainment in Denmark is some of the best in the world but most people aren’t aware of it. I’m glad you got to experience some of the youth culture of Danes. Just to note for you: there are only 200 residents in Christiania. There is a limit on number of residents allowed because the commune can only sustain that many individuals and people living there want to ensure that the anarchist attitude is maintained rather than focusing on the sale of hash and marijuana. Most of the people selling on pusher street actually don’t live there…
Go Brondby!
Peace