A Short Guide to Winter on Lolland
Winter has arrived on Lolland, and for many internationals it can feel like a big shift: shorter days, colder weather and a season filled with traditions you may not know yet. But winter here is also cosy and full of small experiences that make the dark months feel warmer.
Winter in Denmark = Christmas season
For most people in Denmark, winter and Christmas are closely connected. As daylight fades, Danes start creating warmth indoors: lighting candles, decorating their homes and meeting for seasonal traditions. The long winter days are part of slowly building up the Christmas spirit.
Local winter traditions on Lolland
- Christmas tree lightings (juletræstænding) - the holiday season begins with the lighting of the Christmas tree. In Nakskov, Maribo, Rødby and other smaller towns, locals gather for music, warm drinks and the moment of the lights turn on - sometimes with a visit from Santa.
- Christmas markets - from late November, Lolland is full of small and charming Christmas markets. They feature handmade crafts, local products, decorations and warm treats. Each market has its own atmosphere, and it's a great way to meet locals and expericence the season.
- Cultural Christmas events - theatres, cultural centres and cinemas offer concerts, performances and holiday films throughout December. Libraries also host craft workshops and family-friendly activites - many of them free and perfect for getting into the Christmas spirit.
Keep an eye on the calendar, to see the time and place for the activities (detsker.lolland.dk).
Danish Christmas traditions
December is one of the most tradition-filled months in Denmark, and many of these customs may be new if you're not familiar with the Danish way of spending Christmas. Here are some of the most common traditions you’re likely to notice — or be invited to join.
Throughout December, Danish towns decorate their streets with warm Christmas lights, illuminated trees and festive ornaments. You’ll see lights hanging across pedestrian streets, wrapped around lamp posts and placed in town squares - creating a cosy atmosphere during the darkest weeks of the year.
Danish homes are just as decorated. People take great pride in making their houses and windows look hyggelig and festive, often with candles, stars, garlands, Advent decorations and small Christmas figurines. For many Danes, decorating for Christmas is a beloved tradition that brings warmth and colour into the winter season.
The Danish Christmas season begins with the four Sundays of Advent. Many families light one candle each Sunday in a wreath with four candles. Some also use a chocolate Advent calendar or a “package calendar” with small daily gifts. You’ll see Advent decorations everywhere - in homes, shops and public spaces.
Most schools and cultural institutions celebrate Lucia Day, a Nordic tradition where children walk in a procession wearing white robes and carrying candles while singing.
A julefrokost is one of Denmark’s biggest winter traditions. Despite the name, it’s not really a lunch - it’s a long, festive meal often held by workplaces, associations, families or groups of friends. The menu usually includes classic dishes like herring, salmon, pork roast, frikadeller and risalamande, often accompanied by beer and snaps.
If you’re invited, it’s both a social event and a great way to get to know Danish culture. Just be prepared for a long evening!
Unlike many countries, Danes celebrate Christmas on 24 December, not 25 December. Families gather in the evening, eat a long dinner, dance around the Christmas tree while singing, and open gifts afterwards.
Public holidays and closing days
December and early January include several holidays that affect opening hours:
- 24, 25 and 26 December - public holidays, many shops and offices are closed
- 31 December - often reduced hours
- 1 January - public holiday, everything closed
Libraries, cultural centres and municipal services may also have limited opening hours between Christmas and New Year. Check online before you go if you need something during this period.
Practical tips for winter on Lolland
- Get proper winter clothing. A warm coat, hat, gloves and waterproof shoes make a big difference.
- Use the daylight. Even a short walk during lunch can boost your mood.
- Stay social. Join a club, event or something social — winter feels shorter when you connect with others.
- Check opening hours. Some services and shops have limited hours during the holidays.
- Snow and ice. Property owners are responsible for clearing snow and ice from the sidewalk in front of their home. If you rent, your landlord or housing association may handle it - but it's always good to check what applies to your adress.
