Solvang Danish Days is returning this September with a jam-packed lineup. From Friday, September 20, to Sunday, September 22, Solvang will once again honor its title as “The Danish Capital of America,” inviting visitors to take part in authentic Danish festivities. With the theme Det Dansk, Det Dejligt (“It’s Danish, it’s delightful!”), this year rings in the 86th year of Danish-themed fun in Solvang.
Danish Days honors the 1911 establishment of Solvang by Danish-Americans. Beginning in 1936 to commemorate Solvang’s 25th anniversary, the event has since transformed into a massive annual tradition that looks to preserve Solvang’s unique Danish culture. As the story goes, Danish Days solidified Solvang as a tourism hotspot in 1946 when a reporter from the Saturday Evening Post visited the event and published an article praising Solvang as “Little Denmark.”
Many decades later, Danish Days continues to delight attendees. This year’s itinerary seamlessly integrates older Danish-American customs with modern-day festival essentials. Activities are varied — from axe throwing to food tours to a Hans Christian Andersen story time — welcoming guests of all ages to enjoy the celebration.
