One of the things I love best about being in Europe during the holiday season is the opportunity to visit the Christmas markets that you find throughout Europe. One of my favorites for families is in Copenhagen at the Tivoli Gardens.  Tivoli Gardens is Denmark’s most popular tourist destination, and is said to have been the inspiration for California’s Disneyland.  Normally closed during winter, Tivoli opens for the month of December and is transformed into a winter wonderland.  

Stroll through the gardens and explore the 70 festive stalls full of Christmas cheer and goodies.  Then, if you, like my girls, are willing to brave the below freezing temps you often encounter in Copenhagen this time of year, you can enjoy the rides of the amusement park that are also open for the season.  Santa often makes an appearance and parents can get a picture of him with their little ones sitting in his sleigh.

Other holiday festivities around Copenhagen include the Christmas Tables at Royal Copenhagen.  This year’s festive settings honor some of Copenhagen’s “royal” entities including the Royal Library, the Royal Danish Lifeguards and the Royal Danish Opera.  After your visit of the Christmas Tables go next door to the Royal Cafe and enjoy the traditional holiday treat  brunkager (ginger cookie).

Finally, wrap up your Copenhagen holiday celebration with the Royal Danish Ballet’s winter performance of Sleeping Beauty.  A newly choreographed version of this classic will be the final performance for the company’s prima ballerina and a delight for the entire family.

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