3rd floor -
Is it Christmas when you light the tree, carve the roast pork, or when the first snowflake falls?
This year’s Christmas exhibition invites you on a journey through a thousand years of Danish holiday traditions — to discover what truly makes Christmas feel like Christmas. Christmas in Denmark has deep roots, but the way we celebrate has changed profoundly over time. In this exhibition, you’ll experience four very different Christmas Eves.
Image gallery
1 / 3
Step into Peter’s Christmas
The Danish middle class of the 1800s celebrated Christmas with red-and-white decorations, sweets, and gifts. Take a seat at the table with Peter and his family, from the beloved 19th-century children’s story Peter’s Christmas, and see the living room that became the picture-perfect image of the Danish Christmas.
2 / 3
Hear the story by the fire
Follow Gertrud through the forest on Christmas night in the 12th century. Across Denmark, new churches are rising, and Christianity is taking root in everyday life. But what makes a true Christmas — is it the promise of God’s salvation? Sit by the fire and listen to Gertrud’s story.
3 / 3
Is Christmas a serious matter — or just a bit of play?
On a farmhouse in the late 1700s, everyone has gathered indoors. On Christmas night, much is at stake: it’s a time when the boundary between worlds grows thin, and the underworld might break through. Explore the farm and hear little Jens’s story.
1.
On good terms with the elf in the attic
In the old days, a little household spirit — called Niels or Nis — lived up in the attic. He was about the size of a ten-year-old child and always wore a red cap. Nis looked after the people and animals on the farm, but only if he was treated with respect — and given his bowl of porridge! Forget his porridge, and the usually kind-hearted Nis could quickly turn mischievous… or even vengeful.
2.
What makes it a true Christmas?
Christmas is still the Danes’ favourite holiday, but it doesn’t look the same as it once did. Some traditions have faded away, while others have come back to life. Open the advent calendar doors and explore both the oldest and the newest Christmas customs. Then write down your own wish for a true Christmas and post it in the mailbox — we’ll keep it safe for the future.
Open today
10:00 - 17:00
Admission ticket