Aalborg carnival introduces expanded video surveillance for 100,000 attendees

Both North Jutland Police and Aalborg Carnival will deploy temporary video cameras during this year’s event on 23 May, marking the most extensive surveillance yet for the annual festival, reports Danish broadcaster DR.

The carnival, Scandinavia’s largest of its kind, typically draws up to 100,000 participants with costumes, alcohol, and loud music as its hallmarks. Last year, police used drones and temporary cameras along the parade route—a measure they will repeat in 2024. This year, the carnival organisers will also install their own cameras for the first time.

Jeanett Kaare, a spokesperson for Aalborg Carnival, stated that the move aims to enhance safety for all attendees. “We want to do everything we can to ensure our guests feel secure. That’s incredibly important,” she said.

Surveillance will cover both the parade through Aalborg’s streets and the subsequent celebrations in the central Kildeparken area. Kaare dismissed concerns that attendees might feel excessively monitored, noting the cameras would be positioned discreetly. “Hopefully, they won’t even notice it. For us, it’s simply about added security.”

Past incidents at the carnival have included reports of violence, drink spiking, and possible sexual assaults. Kaare emphasised the importance of real-time monitoring by both organisers and police. “This year, I’m sending my own 16-year-old daughter to the event. It’s reassuring to know someone is keeping an eye on the crowds,” she added.

Aalborg Carnival has been held annually since 1983.