Dreaming of a Danish getaway? Sipping coffee in Copenhagen, maybe? We hope you can get there and enjoy your trip! But just in case that’s not in the books this year…Solvang is a 4-hour drive away – and the fun is guaranteed. Tucked in the heart of California, Solvang is a Danish-inspired town brimming with the charm of a European village. If you love old-world architecture, charming aesthetics, or have ever dreamed of escaping to a fairytale village, you’ll fall in love with this spot. To add to the charm, ‘Danish Days’ – California’s biggest Danish festival – returns on September 19 – 21.
Solvang Danish Days – California’s nr. 1 Danish festival
The 2025 Solvang Danish Days theme is Be Happy – Vær Glæde!
Admission to Solvang Danish Days is free. The weekend is filled with lively entertainment, from festive parades to traditional dancing and Danish music. The little ones can also enjoy fun activities such as Hans Christian Andersen storytelling, and hands-on LEGO sessions.
Expect fan-favorite food surrounding Aebleskiver, the iconic Danish pastry. You can also enjoy a Danish-style beer and wine garden serving Carlsberg, alongside local brews. Find plenty of festival eats, interactive history lessons, an axe-throwing arena, live concerts and even an artisanal crafts marketplace.
If you truly want to live like a Viking for a day, get the VIP ticket, which includes:
- Viking helmets
- 2 Æbleskiver breakfast tickets
- 2 beer / soda coupons
- 2 food coupons for the beer garden
- 2 axe throwing tickets
- and a chance to win a trip to (the real) Denmark!
You can check out the full schedule here.
A look back in time
The first Solvang Danish Days festival was held in 1936 to celebrate the village’s 25th anniversary. Since then, the event has honored Solvang’s Danish heritage with traditional food, music, dancing, parades, live entertainment, and family-friendly activities. Over the years, Danish Days has grown into a signature community celebration. This year marks the 88th edition of this tradition – a true showcase of Danish culture you won’t want to miss.