Aalborg Carnival, Denmark

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What is the Aalborg Carnival?

The Aalborg Carnival is an annual celebration of cultural events in the city of Aalborg, Denmark. It is currently regarded as the largest carnival in Northern Europe. The carnival lasts for a week and has the particularity of being aninclusive carnival, for everyone, since the city has different events and areas for professional groups, adults and children to have fun during the party.

Aalborg carnival celebrations feature a theme each year, so many of thecostumes and carnival themes are inspired by the same. However, the carnival theme is not a must and you can dress up or dress in whatever you most desire. Previously, the carnival has featured a few themes such as “When I Grow Up“, “The four seasons“, “By land, water and air” and “The world is full of…”

Aalborg Carnival is supported by different companies such as 7-Eleven, Heineken, Tema Shop, Mokai, Godik, Billing Billy, Toil n’ Moil and OnlinePOS. In addition, the carnival has been taking part in the Liberty project of the European Union. This is a project that involves young artists who are part of the different musical events, theater, art and languages.

We invite you to learn all about the Aalborg Carnival in Denmark.

 

 

When is Aalborg Carnival

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The Aalborg Carnival is a celebration that takes place in the 21st week of the year and usually takes place in the last weeks of the month, occupying about a week of events and activities. Thecelebration will take place approximately between May 21 and 29.

 

 

History of the Aalborg Carnival

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The Aalborg Carnival was held for the first time in the year 1983 thanks to the collaboration of 4 Danish citizens: Kirsti Thorvaldsen, Ebbe Lauridsen, Kaj Steensgárd and Bramwell Flyck. Thanks to the participation of this group of people, the carnival was established as an organization to provide spaces for citizens to party in inclusive and friendly spaces.

The intention of the carnivals in the beginning was to celebrate in a fantasy world and commemorate the arrival of spring through the different carnival traditions. In this way, the city was transformed into a gigantic theater that took each of the citizens as actors, who celebrated with great joy. The first carnival was held in the center of Aalborg on May 28, 1983 and was attended by approximately 10,000 participants. The carnival continued to grow, integrating since 1986 a secretariat at its disposal, which fulfills the functions of collaborating with board members and volunteers and coordinating all events of the association.

NFU participation

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Some years later, specifically in the year 1987, the association encountered a dilemma, as some parties did not wish to continue with the carnival project. Thus 2 of the members were given authority to develop a new model for the carnival which should have the assistance of NFU -‘Nordjyske Fritids og Ungdomsklubber‘ (Northern Jutland Youth and Leisure Centers).

The NFU decided to offer its support and contribute considerable manpower to the work of the board. Thus, the Carnival Association rose again. Initially, theAalborg Carnival was held in downtown Aalborg, but due to a lack of security downtown and a substantial decrease in revenue, the board decided to move the event to Kildeparken park, the location where the carnivals are held today.

 

Where is the Aalborg Carnival?

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The Aalborg Carnival takes place specifically in Kildeparken Park, in the city of Aalborg, Denmark. This park is a public site and is considered one of the oldest public parks in the city. The park was founded in the year 1802 and features a variety of plants, classical works, sculptures and fountains.

The city of Aalborg is a port city of Denmark and currently has approximately 217,000 inhabitants.

 

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How the Aalborg Carnival is celebrated

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Aalborg Carnival features a large number of activities that take place within the week-long celebrations. The celebrations feature a festival, parades, different activities for children and drink sales. In addition, the carnival has abracelet system that gives you access to certain services that are available at the festival.

 

Camp Karneval or Carnival Camp

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This is acamping area that was first introduced in 2019 and will be taking place by 2021. At the campground you can get a full carnival experience and participate in a host of events spread throughout the grounds. The area is a 5-minute walk from the festival grounds and functions as the accommodation at Aalborg Carnival..

The campground features the following:

• • Area near Kildeparken Park

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• • Access bar and lounges

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• • Bathroom and shower facilities

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• • Free breakfast on Saturday

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• • Charging facilities for phones
  • Free breakfast on Saturday

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• Grand Parade

 

Fri Bar or Open Bar

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The parade has several spaces where different drinks such as Heineken beer and cider are served. The establishment opens about 30 minutes before the parade. The open bar has 6 spaces: 1 in Nørresundby, 2 in SKAT and 3 in Haraldslund. Drinks are served one at a time.

 

Grand Parade

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It is one of the most anticipated carnival events and are attended by 100,000 spectators. Around 15 professional carnival groups from all over the world participate in the event, which open and parade during the event with great costumes, incredible choreographies and a good festive atmosphere.

The parade has the particularity of starting at 4 different locations in Aalborg and then all parts are united in one big event in the center of Aalborg. The parade continues to Kildeparken to party the rest of the day with good music. In addition, the costumes seen in the parade depend on the creativity and imagination of each person. However, the organization does not allow political or commercial promotion.

If you want to know more about tourism in this country I recommend this guide:.

 

International Parade or Battle of the Bands

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It is a big event that takes place a week before the Grand Carnival Parade. This parade has the participation of several carnival groups from all over the world who travel to Aalborg to participate in this event. At the event 3 grandstands are set up, where you can buy seats so that you don’t watch the parade from an uncomfortable place.

 

Festival

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The festival is a great event that occurs after the parade and is a great celebration withmusic, DJs, top quality entertainment and features a great festive atmosphere that you definitely won’t want to miss.

 

Children’s Carnival

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It is a small space aimed at the smallest of the city, where all children dress up and enjoy activities, contests and a parade exclusively for them. Children are accompanied by their parents and a magical space is available where they can be part of the festivities.

 

Sacrifice of the Bull

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The Sacrifice of the Bull or Sacrifice of the Cimbrer Bull is a ceremony that takes place before the official carnivals and was a commemoration event as in many other carnival cultures. This ceremony signifies the end of hell and welcomes a warm and fun carnival.

 

The Enchanted Park

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It is an enclosure for the children of the city and participate in the carnival. A large number of events and sports activities for children are held in the facilities.

 

Tips for going to the Aalborg Carnival

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If you decide to attend the Aalborg Carnival, we recommend planning your trip in advance, making an itinerary of activities and booking your accommodation in advance.

In addition, the organizers of the Aalborg Carnival set out some rules, tips and clarifications for participation in its different areas and events:

 

Parade

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You have different first aid areas available during the parade.

During the carnival you have several drinking water stations. In addition, portable toilets are also available.

Street vendors are prohibited during the carnival.

Avoid entering with glass containers since there have been several accidents with glass fragments.

Watch your surroundings. The carnival is attended by many people, so it is easy to get lost in the crowd. Set up a meeting point before the carnival for your friends and family. Also, keep your valuables in a safe place.

Be sure to pack comfortable shoes and clothing so you can walk freely.

Avoid wearing costumes with flammable materials. Also, avoid political or commercial references on them.

Festival

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You are not allowed to bring your own drinks into the festival premises.

You are not allowed to access the venue with food. This is because the organization seeks to provide opportunities for businesses that set up at the carnival.

There are some cigarette stands inside the festival grounds.

 

Camp Carnival

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Inside the facilities you have lockers and cell phone charging stations.

No cars or vehicles may enter the premises.

You can bring your own food and drinks to the camp.

Free breakfast is provided to guests on Saturday morning and Redbull and popcorn is served on Sunday morning.

You may bring up to 10 person tents. They must be set up in the available area.

You are responsible for the cleanliness of your own tent.

No loud noise is allowed after 10:00 pm.

 

Free Bar

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You must be 18 years or older to purchase drinks

Only available during the parade

Remember to bring your ID.

You must have a Free Bar bracelet to purchase drinks.

 

Children’s Carnival

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Food may be brought into the children’s carnival facilities. However, drinks are not allowed.

 

International Parade

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You can place yourself in one of the 3 grandstands that the city has for the event. If you wish to purchase a seat, you must buy the right to it.

 

Events in Aalborg Carnival

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Aalborg Carnival is organized as follows:

International Parade

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May 21 at 17:00

 

Bull Sacrifice

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May 21 at 19:00

 

Carnival Ball

May 22nd from 20:00 until 3:00

 

 

Camp Carnival

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May 28 installation of the areas.

May 29 free breakfast and preparation of the elements for the parade.

May 30 free drinks and cleaning of the areas.

 

Free bar

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May 29 all beverage areas are set up.

 

Children’s Carnival

May 29th from 10:00 to 16:00

 

Festival

May 29 opening of the venue at 11:00. The start of the event is at 14:00 and culminates at 23:00.

 

Parade

May 29th

The parade starts at 10:00 in Nørresundby and Skat and at 11:00 in Haraldslund.

 

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Aalborg Carnival Parades

 

During the Aalborg Carnival there are 2 main parades. The first takes place with the participation of several international groups who travel to the city to provide an experience like no other. The groups offer a costume and music show that you won’t want to miss. The parade is followed by the Sacrifice of the Bull.

The second main parade is the one that takes place during the official day of the carnival. Thousands of people congregate at 3 different points in the city to then meet all together in the center of Aalborg. After this, they proceed to the Kildenparken to perform a live music festival. During the parade an open bar with beer and cider is offered.

 

Parade route

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The Main Parade or Grand Parade starts in Nørresundby, Skat and Haraldslund until it reaches Aalborg city center.

The International Parade will cross Danmarksgade all the way to Gabels Torv.

 

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What to eat at Aalborg Carnival[/caption]

What to eat at Aalborg Carnival[/caption]?
One of the sponsors of the carnival is Heineken, so the vast majority of the drinks you’ll come across during the carnival are going to be from this brand. Heineken is a Dutch company that has been producing beer since 1873. Today it representsone of the best-known beer brands in the world with a production of billions of liters of beer per year.

One of the street foods of Denmark is the Pølser, a type of deep red pork sausage found everywhere in the country. It is commonly found in hot dog presentation with pickles, onions, mustard and ketchup.

Some of the most popular eateries in the city are Mortens Kro Restaurant, Cafe Vi.2, Restaurantskibet Prinses Juliana, Soegaards Bryghus and Rositas Bistro. These venues offer Danish, Scandinavian, European and French food.

 

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Travel Insurance

 

From Carnavalesdelmundo.org we recommend to hire a good insurance to visit this carnival and to know the rest of the country. For being our readers we offer a 5% discount on all IATI insurance. Read more information about all insurance offers here:

 

 

What to see and do inside the Aalborg Carnival

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Within the carnival you can attend the International Parade which takes place a week before the official start of the carnival. Dozens of international groups perform in the city in large and colorful costumes. In addition, on the same day the Bull Sacrifice ceremony takes place to welcome the summer festivities..

Once the carnival begins, you can participate in the Grand Carnival Parade whichdeparts from 3 different points in the city to then join and continue the celebration. After this, you must attend the musical festival that culminates in the evening. Also, you canpurchase free drinks during the parade route.

If you decide to venture out, you can camp at the facilities near the park and enjoy the free breakfast on Saturday and drinks on Sunday. Be sure to bring your tent if you want to be part of camping.

If you don’t want to complicate things, here you can book interesting excursions in Spanish in this city:.

 

What to see and do outside the Aalborg Carnivals

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The city has a few attractions that are within its jurisdiction:

Lindholm Hoeje Museum

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This is a museum that is located right next to a Viking cemetery. The place offers some talks and exhibits of ancient pieces and artifacts. Also, the cemetery is part of the facilities and you can learn a little more about the history and culture of the Vikings.

 

Aalborg Zoologiske Have

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It is a zoo that occupies diverse animals from all over the planet. It also offers some entertainment facilities and activities for children. Within the facilities you can find elephants, penguins, giraffes, polar bears and tigers.

 

Kunsten Museum of Modern Art Aalborg

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It is a somewhat small museum, but has a large number of pieces and works by national and international artists. In addition, it offers some activities and training for children. The museum has a small restaurant where you can go to eat after the guided tour, which takes about 2 hours.

Also if you want to visit museums and important buildings in this city we recommend that you book your ticket in advance through Tiquets: .

 

Safety at the Aalborg Carnival

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Aalborg is one of the safest cities in Denmark and Europe, so you can feel completely safe during your visit. However, we recommend you use common sense to stay away from any problems that may arise.

It is always a good idea to keep your valuables in a safe place to avoid theft or misplacement. Also, we recommend the following products to keep your valuables safe:

 

 

Weather at the Aalborg Carnival

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During the Aalborg Carnival the weather is pleasant, but it can still be a bit chilly. Temperatures in the city range from 6 to 19 degrees Celsius with little chance of precipitation. If you are a chilly person, we recommend you to bring some warm clothes.

 

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How to get to the Aalborg Carnival

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How to get there by plane

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The city of Aalborg has its own airport calledAalborg Airport, which receives a good amount of flights from various parts of Europe and Asia. Once here, you can take the different means of transportation until you reach the city center.

We recommend buying airline tickets through Kiwi.com or Skyscanner where they are usually cheaper. More information on this link to review Kiwi.com..

 

How to get there by ferry

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There are a few ferry services arriving to Aalborg, especially from Norway, Sweden and United Kingdom.

The city of Aalborg is connected to some cities via the train system such as Copenhagen, Roskilde, Odense and Aarhus.

 

How to get there by bus

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From the airport you can take North Jutland Transport Company bus number 12, 70 or 200 to the city center. The ride is about 6 minutes.

In addition, the city connects quite well through the different stations located in the rest of the country, especially in the northern area.

 

How to get there by car

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From the airport you can take highway 55 to the city center.

You can also take a cab, which are priced between 23 and 28 US dollars.

 

Where to stay at Aalborg Carnival

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Booking.com

 

First Hotel Aalborg

4-star hotel 650 meters from Aalborg city scepter. Rooms feature luxury beds and flat-screen TV. The hotel offers a fitness center, bar, room service, free breakfast, parking and free Wi-Fi.

 

Milling Hotel Gestus

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3-star hotel 250 meters from Aalborg city scepter. The rooms have a TV, desk and private bathroom with shower. In addition, the hotel has Breakfast, bar, parking and free wifi.

 

Radisson Blu Limfjord Hotel

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4-star hotel 350 meters from Aalborg’s city scepter. Rooms feature cable/satellite TV, tea/coffee set, sitting area and private bathroom. The hotel offers breakfast, bar, room service, gym, parking and free Wi-Fi.

We recommend using Booking.com to book hotels at good rates, check more information here:.

 

Booking.com

 

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