Aalborg Carnival (or Karnival) is a very big celebration in Denmark and the
biggest carnival in Northern Europe. It is estimated that about 100,000
people from all over the world come to enjoy this event. This carnival is all
about fun, vibrating colors, hot samba rhythms, impressive costumes, drums,
music, happiness, fantasy and dance. Aalborg Carnival takes place every year in
the weekend of week 21 or the last week of May. Alcohol consumption is
heavy on most days. When compared to other cities of Denmark, Aalborg has one of
the highest number of bars, nightclubs and pubs per person.
By looking at the magnitude of celebrations, it is difficult to imagine that
this event/celebration is not really that old. It was started first time in 1982
by just a few people, and even then it was still able to draw a crowd of few
thousand people. This carnival has grown bigger and more interesting every year
since then. Each year the participants create their costumes based on a theme
suggested by the organizers. There is usually an entrance fee for all events.
Aalborg Carnival is broadly divided into three stages.
The year 2008 carnival will be held from 17th to 24th of May and the theme for 2008 is "Magic in the Air".
STAGE 1 (Children/Teenager’s Carnival): This is the first event and is designed for the entertainment of youngsters. It takes place in the Aalborg's amusement park Karolinelund (or Kildeparken), during which they perform parades, play games and a lot of other entertainment. This is a relatively new event and keeping in mind the age of most participants, this even is celebrated alcohol-free.
STAGE 2 (The Parade and Battle of Carnival Bands): The parade initially starts from several locations in Aalborg (free participation) and eventually enters the Kildeparken (not free). This whole event takes place on a Friday with more than a dozen carnival teams from all over the world participate to win the title of "Best Carnival Group", each band plays for about 10 minutes. There are several shows and great performances. About 5 bands are selected by a panel of judges for the finals the next day.
STAGE 3 (Kildeparken party): This usually happens on the following Saturday and a gigantic party takes place at Kildeparken. The winner of the "Battle of Carnival Bands" is declared. There is live music, dance performances, fireworks and several competitions. The streets are filled with colorfully dressed people who are in the festive mood. People drink and celebrate on the street, you will find many "sparsely" dressed men and women on the streets.
1. Aalborghus Castle in the center of the town. This castle was built in 1550 by King Christian III.
2. Jens Bang's House, a five story building built in 1624 attracts tourists for its beautiful architecture.
3. Budolfi Church.
4. Aalborg Historical Museum
5. Aalborgtarnet - A tripod tower erected in 1933 which rises 105 meters over the sea level and gives a great view of the city.
