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Christmas Eve, known as "Juleaften" in Danish, is celebrated on December 24th and is the main event of the Christmas festivities in Denmark. The celebration has its roots in both pre-Christian winter solstice traditions and Christian beliefs. Over time, these elements have intertwined to create the uniquely Danish Christmas celebration observed today.
Family Gatherings: Danes traditionally spend Christmas Eve with family. It's a time for togetherness, warmth, and the joy of sharing.
The Feast: A central part of the evening is the Christmas dinner, which typically includes roast pork, duck or goose, red cabbage, and caramelized potatoes. For dessert, 'risalamande' (rice pudding with almonds) is served with cherry sauce; finding the whole almond in it means receiving a small gift.
Dancing around the Tree: After dinner, families join hands to dance around the Christmas tree while singing traditional carols. The tree is usually beautifully decorated with lights, ornaments, and sometimes Danish flags.
Gift Exchange: Presents are placed under the tree and are opened after singing around it. This moment is eagerly anticipated by children and adults alike.
Homes are adorned with decorations such as candles, hearts made of folded paper or fabric ("julehjerter"), stars ("julestjerner"), and figurines of elves known as "nisser."
Many Danes attend church services on Christmas Eve where they might enjoy a sermon or participate in singing Christmas hymns.
Christmas Eve in Denmark encapsulates a blend of conviviality, tradition, and anticipation that makes it a cherished time for Danish people across generations.
