Santa Lucia Kayak Parade
A magical evening procession of illuminated kayaks gliding through Copenhagen's canals to celebrate St. Lucia's Day with festive songs and glowing lights.
About this event
The Santa Lucia Kayak Parade is a beloved modern Copenhagen tradition that brings warmth and light to the dark December evenings. Commemorating St. Lucia (the bearer of light), dozens of kayakers deck out their vessels, paddles, and life jackets with countless sparkling Christmas lights, candles, and glowing decorations. The parade routes through the city's iconic waterways—passing by Nyhavn, Christianshavn, and the Opera House—while paddlers often sing traditional Swedish and Danish Lucia hymns. Crowds gather along the canals and bridges, sipping hot chocolate or gløgg, to watch the enchanting, luminous fleet glide smoothly through the chilly winter waters.
Gallery
Event Details
Date
Sunday, 13 December 2026
→ 13 November 2026
Location
Copenhagen Canals & Harbor Waters (Starting and ending typically around Nyhavn, Christianshavn, and Indre By, 1050 Copenhagen K, Denmark).