Cinnamon celebration in Aalborg sparks concerns over public space cleanliness

Walking through Aalborg, you might encounter unsightly yet fragrant patches of cinnamon scattered along the sidewalks. This peculiar situation arises from a group of young people celebrating a friend’s 25th birthday by showering them with the festive spice. However, this activity isn’t enjoyable for everyone—especially those who have to deal with the aftermath.

One resident, Thomas Brøndbjerg, has voiced concerns over the cinnamon on the pavements to the local authorities. He remarks on how unappealing it looks as people walk or bike through the mess. “It’s frustrating to get it stuck on my shoe soles or bike tires,” he stated. He suggests that a simple washdown with a hose could rectify the problem, yet notes that this isn’t being done. He considers this behavior vandalism.

While Brøndbjerg sees the humor in the tradition, he believes it has escalated too far. He recalls that when he turned 25, receiving a small pouch of cinnamon was the norm, rather than being bound to lampposts and doused with a leaf blower full of spice.

In response to Brøndbjerg’s complaints, local authorities have indicated they will not clean the cinnamon from public spaces. Jan Nymark Rose Thaysen, a city official, acknowledges the unsightliness but emphasizes the prioritization of public service tasks. As the cinnamon poses no health risk, it has been deemed a low priority for cleanup. Thaysen suggests that those who create the mess should be responsible for cleaning it up.

Brøndbjerg remains dissatisfied with the municipal response, feeling uneasy about the prospect of encountering cinnamon on the streets in the future. He expressed surprise that the authorities acknowledge their responsibility yet choose not to take action.