Aalborg Karneval 2025

This year, the Aalborg Carnival’s theme is My True Self: time to let go, be bold, and join in the fun!

The Aalborg Carnival carries the wild spirit of ancient pagan festivals, where people once danced in masks and costumes to chase away winter and welcome spring. Founded in Norse and Germanic traditions such as Fastelavn, it echoes the old transformation, chaos, and rebirth rituals.

This carnival began in 1983 as a small local celebration and has since exploded into Scandinavia’s largest carnival. Inspired by the grand traditions of Rio and Venice, it embraces a wild mix of creativity, music, and unfiltered joy, where anyone can join the parade in extravagant costumes.

It's also the largest carnival in Northern Europe. If you ever dreamed about joining the Brazilian carnival, simply visit Denmark to enjoy a tropical carnival ambiance filled with lively samba rhythms.

Prepare for the wild experience! The carnival story starts on May 17 with the Children's Carnival and ends on May 24, the main day of the Grand Parade.

What to Expect When Attending Aalborg Karneval 2025

Here's a breakdown of the Carnival's highlights:

• The International Parade/Battle of the Carnival Bands: This is a competition between international samba and carnival bands. The best bands from around the world perform high-energy drumming, dancing, and performances in the days leading up to the main parade.
• The Burial of the Bull: A symbolic ritual and one of carnival traditions. It represents the death of excess and chaos, much like the closing ceremonies of old pagan carnivals. A giant bull figure, a symbol of strength, passion, and indulgence, is paraded through the streets before being ceremonially "laid to rest" in Kildeparken.
• The Children's Carnival: A special carnival day for families and kids, held the week before the main parade (May 17). It includes kid-friendly entertainment, costumes, and games. Check out the program here!
• The Grand Parade: This carnival's main attraction is on Saturday, May 24, and features around 100,000 participants dressed in fantasy costumes! The parade starts from three different points (Nørresundby at 10 AM, Østerbro at 10:30 AM, and Vestbyen at 11 AM) and ends in Kildeparken.
• The after-party: The Kildeparken hosts a party for everyone, with live music, DJs, dancing areas, food stalls, and bars. Check the music schedule!

May typically brings mild spring weather, with average daytime temperatures around 15.2 C (59.4 F) and nighttime lows near 7.8 C (46 F). Be creative and wear your best costume, but bring layers for chilly evenings!

Tickets

You can observe the festivities for free, but you need to purchase a wristband to join the Grand Parade. One bracelet costs 109 kr (~$16). If you'd like to enjoy music and many other things in Kildeparken, the bracelet for Parade and Kildeparken costs 309 kr (~$45).

Security Protocols

Police and event staff will be on hand to guide crowds, handle emergencies, and ensure a fun, safe atmosphere. Expect bag checks at entrance points, especially in Kildeparken, where wristbands are required. If you need help, don’t hesitate to approach security or use emergency contact points—they’re there to keep the party going smoothly!

How to Get To or From the Event

Here’s how you can get there:

• By air: The nearest airport is Aalborg Airport (AAL), about 6 km from the city center. You can take bus 12, 70, or 71 from the airport to Aalborg’s central station.
• By train: Aalborg has a central railway station (Aalborg Station) with direct trains from Copenhagen, Aarhus, and Odense. The station is a 10–15 minute walk from the carnival areas.
• By bus: Long-distance buses (like FlixBus) connect Aalborg to cities in Denmark and Germany. Local buses serve the city well, and some routes may have special services or diversions. Check here for routes and schedules.
• By car: Aalborg is accessible via the E45 highway. Parking in the city can be limited, so consider using park-and-ride options or public transport.

Aalborg Karneval 2025 Bag Policy

Aalborg Carnival hasn’t published a strict bag policy, but it’s best to follow general festival guidelines for a smooth experience.

Small to medium-sized bags are recommended, as large backpacks or suitcases aren't convenient, especially in crowded areas.

Expect bag checks at entry points, particularly at Kildeparken. To ensure safety, glass containers, sharp objects, and excessive alcohol are prohibited.

For the latest updates, check the official Aalborg Karneval website or contact the organizers at info@aalborgkarneval.dk.

Aalborg Karneval 2025 Bag Storage

Store Your Bags With Bounce and Step Into a Fantasy World

If you're wondering what to do with your luggage during your visit to Denmark, contact Bounce!

We'll help you store your bags somewhere in Copenhagen from just €3.00 per day! Look for the best location for you, whether it's near Copenhagen Airport, Central Station, your accommodation, or elsewhere.

Each booking includes €10,000 in bag protection, no cancellation fee, and 24/7 support from our team.

How to Stow Your Bag at Aalborg Karneval 2025 With Bounce

1. Choose your spot, book, and pay online.
2. Go to the store with your payment confirmation to drop off your stuff.
3. Head to Aalborg and have fun at its magnificent carnival!

How to Make the Most Out of Aalborg Karneval 2025

• Dress to impress: Go wild with your costume; the more creative, the better!
• Join the Parade: Don't just watch—jump in and be part of the fun!
• Plan your pit stops: Know where the best food and drink stands are for quick refuels.
• Embrace the music: Let loose to the samba beats and live bands—feel the rhythm!
• Bring the whole family: Join the Children’s Carnival for a day of fun, costumes, and kid-friendly entertainment. It's the perfect way to enjoy the festivities together.
• Store your bags with Bounce: Don't worry about your belongings. Bring only the essentials and store the rest securely with us!

Let the good times roll at the Aalborg Carnival 2025. Come for the parade, stay for the memories! See you in Denmark!