Copenhagen mayors launch initiative for local Christmas market amid debate on traditions and offerings

The essence of a traditional Danish Christmas market has sparked a lively debate in Copenhagen. Local officials are questioning whether these markets should feature local delicacies or international offerings like bratwurst and Belgium waffles. Three mayors have taken the initiative to revive local traditions, introducing what they describe as the city’s first major local Christmas market in Kongens Nytorv.

In a public announcement, the mayors emphasized a need to move away from the standardized, foreign-themed markets that many residents feel disconnected from. They cited widespread criticism of the international fare prevalent in previous markets as the motivation for this shift.

Conversely, organizer Michael Deutsch, who has hosted numerous Christmas markets, argues that the criticism is misplaced. He asserts that three-quarters of the vendors at his market on Højbro Plads are Danish, offering local treats like æbleskiver and homemade gløgg. Deutsch believes there is a persistent unfairness in blaming outside influences for a lack of authentic Danish offerings.

Copenhagen’s new local market aims to showcase traditional Danish cuisine, a vision that Nyegaard supports, framing it as an opportunity to present authentic customs to the public. However, Deutsch counters that his market reflects local culture just as well, noting that despite being an organizer of the first German-inspired markets, he actively features Danish goods.

The debate is further complicated by historical context, as several so-called “Danish” traditions, like Christmas trees and gløgg, have origins in other countries. Both Deutsch and Nyegaard assert their perspectives, contesting claims regarding the authenticity and local nature of holiday markets in the capital.