The streets of Aalborg turned into a massive party ground on Saturday, as the Aalborg Karneval attracted close to 100,000 people from across the region and beyond. Despite a chilly and rainy start, the event reached historic highs, with tickets to the final party at Kildeparken sold out for the first time ever.
Record attendance and royal flair
The day began with the international Star Parade (Stjerneparade), a colourful tradition that ushered in the festivities. Among the highlights was the coronation of Tessa, Danish rapper and this year’s carnival queen, who performed later on the main stage in Kildeparken. Her presence, alongside other artists such as Artigeardit and Thor Farlov, helped draw large crowds and energise the crowd despite the wet weather.
Jeanett Kaare, spokesperson for Aalborg Karneval, described the sold-out Kildeparken event as a milestone. “It really peaked there. When something you’ve worked on for so long becomes so sought after, it’s just incredibly satisfying,” she said.
Safety and medical support put to the test
As the carnival procession twisted through the city, medical services and law enforcement faced intense pressure. Over 400 patients were expected throughout the day by local emergency rooms, with a makeshift medical centre at Kildeparken treating over 110 people, mostly for minor injuries and alcohol-related issues. Many guests suffered cuts from glass shards on the ground, prompting police to issue safety warnings during the event.
Michael Skærbæk Jespersen, head of Aalborg’s patient transport services, reported that ambulances were running non-stop, and that the main culprit for most incidents was alcohol. “They cut their hands and feet, they drink too much, or they’ve smoked something not so great,” he explained.
Police interventions: from petty crime to serious risks
Nordjyllands Politi (North Jutland Police) were heavily present, calling in support from Hobro and Hjørring units to manage the crowd. While the day was mostly described as peaceful, authorities responded to multiple disturbances, including eight arrests – all later released – and 75 drug-related citations.
In a more serious episode, a carnival guest attempted to grab a police officer’s weapon, triggering an ongoing investigation. “No one was in danger, but any attempt to seize a weapon is taken very seriously,” said Deputy Police Inspector Søren Pejtersen. Another case involved a drunk driver navigating dangerously close to the carnival route.
The party continues in Jomfru Ane Gade
As is tradition, the celebration carried on into the night in Jomfru Ane Gade, Aalborg’s famed party street. According to duty officer Martin Møller, the street was “packed” and required the deployment of extra police forces. While there were reports of fights and disturbances, most incidents “dissolved themselves” upon police arrival, and no major injuries were reported.
Despite the challenges, the 2025 edition of Aalborg Karneval marked a resounding success. From handcrafted floats and elaborate costumes to packed concerts and dedicated safety teams, the event showcased both the spirit and scale of northern Europe’s largest carnival.
