Dear participant,

We hope you are enjoying your stay in Aalborg at the World Firefighters Games, where sport, community and unique experiences are in focus. More than 1.500 firefighters and accompanying families have come to visit and enjoy our city, and many local citizens have come to see the competition and action. We hope you that you have already met and shared many fun experiences with the friendly people of Aalborg.

We have collected some good advice for you on how to interact with the local people of Aalborg. Understanding certain cultural norms can make your interactions with locals easier and more enjoyable.

Here are some tips on how to interact with Danes in a respectful and authentic way:

Friendly but reserved - Be Polite and Respectful
Danes may appear a bit reserved at first, but this doesn't mean they are unfriendly. They are generally polite and kind, though they rarely initiate small talk with strangers. However when you approach a Dane with a specific question (such as asking for directions), they will typically respond positively and help you with any questions you may have.

Although Denmark is known for its relatively casual and informal tone, politeness is still an important part of daily interaction. Danes appreciate when people speak politely and respectfully to one another. When you meet a Dane, a simple "hej" (hi) or "goddag" (hello) is sufficient. However, it’s not common practice to greet strangers on the street as it might be in some other countries, so don't expect a response if you say hello to someone you don't know.

At the same time, it's essential to use words like "tak" (thank you) and "undskyld" (excuse me or sorry) in situations where you receive help or accidentally bump into someone. Small gestures of politeness make a big difference and show that you respect Danish culture.

Respect Personal Space
Danes have a strong sense of privacy and personal space. In public places, such as buses, trains, and cafés, it's important to respect people's space and avoid being intrusive. When standing in line, for example, at the supermarket or bus stop, it’s important to keep a bit of distance from the person in front of you. Danes appreciate order and fairness in queues, so cutting in or standing too close may be seen as disrespectful.

Sexual consent law – remember verbal consent
We have a sexual consent law which requires both parties to give their consent before sexual intercourse takes place. Denmark’s consent legislation emphasizes that all sexual activities must be based on explicit and mutual agreement. This means that silence or lack of resistance is not considered consent. Both verbal and non-verbal cues should clearly indicate a mutual willingness to engage in any intimate activity. It is the initiating party that has the burden of proof.

This understanding of consent extends to everyday interactions as well. Danes generally value personal space and respect for boundaries, so always ensure you respect others’ comfort levels in social situations. Physical contact, such as hugging or touching, is typically reserved for closer relationships. If you’re unsure, it’s always best to ask first, whether it’s for a hug, handshake, or any other gesture.

Dressing Freedom and Respect
Generally, Danes dress informally and freely. It is common to wear shorts and tops in the city. In Danish culture, personal freedom and autonomy are highly valued, and individuals’ choices of attire do not signal interest in romantic or sexual attention. Respecting boundaries and consent is crucial when interacting with locals. Any form of harassment or unwanted advances, regardless of how someone is dressed, is both socially unacceptable and against the law.

Avoid transgressive behavior
It is crucial to understand that violence and aggressive behavior are illegal in Denmark and taken very seriously by authorities. Danish law strictly prohibits any form of physical violence, whether in public or private settings. This includes acts such as hitting, pushing, or any other form of physical harm. Engaging in violent behavior can lead to serious legal consequences, including fines, arrest, and potential imprisonment.

In addition to physical violence, aggressive behavior such as threatening or intimidating others is also unlawful. Behavior that can be (conceived) as insulting or transgressive is not tolerated. This applies to public spaces, social gatherings, and even interactions at bars or events. Denmark prides itself on being a safe and peaceful country, and the local population generally values calm and respectful communication.

If you find yourself in a conflict or disagreement, it is essential to remain calm and resolve the situation peacefully. If the situation cannot be handled, it is best to walk away or seek assistance from authorities rather than risk engaging in any aggressive behavior.

Inclusivity – a safe space for everyone
Denmark is a safe space for everyone, regardless of age, gender, beliefs, sexuality, and ethnicity. We do not tolerate transphobia, homophobia, racism, discrimination, sexism, or body shaming. Meet and treat everyone with respect and politeness.

Appreciation for Peace and Quiet in public spaces
In Denmark, peace and quiet are valued in many contexts. Public places, such as trains and buses, are often very quiet, and it’s expected that people don’t speak loudly or play loud music. If you find yourself in such situations, it’s a good idea to be mindful of this "quiet culture" and adjust by speaking softly if necessary.

Take care of our city and environment

Denmark is a very environmentally conscious country. This is reflected in their daily lives, where recycling, cycling, and the use of public transport are commonplace. As a visitor, it’s important to be mindful of these values and do your part to minimize your impact. Don’t litter – use the bins around the city - and follow local recycling guidelines.

Watch out for bicycles
Denmark is known for its strong cycling culture, especially in cities. The bike lanes are busy, and Danes take cycling seriously. Make sure to look both ways when crossing a bicycle lane and avoid stopping in the middle of the bike lane, as this can create dangerous situations with oncoming traffic.

Finally - Enjoy our city and make new friends 😊
Interacting with Danes can be both an enriching and fun experience. Danes may take some time to open up, but when they do, they are often friendly and welcoming. With a little openness and understanding of their culture, you’ll quickly feel welcome in Denmark.

Although many Danes speak fluent English, they appreciate it when visitors try to say a few words in Danish. A simple "tak" (thank you) or "hej" (hello) can open doors and show that you respect the local culture.