It may be a little-known fact, but this year marks the 20th anniversary of the first country in the world to recognize same-sex marriage. Back in 1989 Denmark surprised the global population with this major groundbreaking initiative and since that time gays and lesbians have been visiting the capital city of Copenhagen to enjoy this openly gay-friendly metropolis. Then in 1999, it became possible for married gays to adopt the children of their partners—a major step towards the recognition of a broader definition of family. Finally in 2009 same-sex couples in registered partnerships were allowed to legally adopt children. So, not surprisingly in Copenhagen, this year the LGBT community is celebrating these milestones with great pride.
Copenhagen has long been a tolerant and relaxed city for both gay Danes and LGBT tourists. The first gay bar, Centralhjornet, opened over 80 years ago, and is still going strong accompanied by numerous other newer cafes and bars. The city even brags about its own gay radio station, Radio Rosa. With a compact, historic center full of narrow streets inviting exploration, fabulous beaches a few minutes away, and unspoiled nature close at hand, the urban diversity is abundant. Some very beautiful and interesting people round out the welcoming atmosphere.
Many rumors infer that Copenhagen's most famous son, author Hans Christian Andersen, was possibly gay. It is widely reputed that his fairy-tale The Ugly Duckling might be a gay coming-out story. His statue can be found next to the City Hall, alongside the boulevard that bares his name. This is also just a stone's throw away from the world-renowned Tivoli Gardens where fairy tales mix with modern-day theme-park rides, concerts and some of the best restaurants in town. With inspirational old and modern history it is not surprising that Denmark is often referred to as the most gay-friendly country on Earth.
One of the most pleasant ways to see Copenhagen and orient yourself with this vibrant city is by boat along the extensive canals. Moving at a gentle pace one can observe the famous Little Mermaid Statue, The Royal Palace ( Amalienborg Palace ) , Christiansborg Castle, The Opera House ( Operaen ) , the picturesque Christianshavn neighborhood plus many more historic and unique sights. After this grand tour it becomes easy to find your way around the city and discover the pulsing gay scene.
In honor of this 20th-anniversary year, the City of Copenhagen will incorporate its annual Pride celebrations with hosting the 2nd World Outgames. This will be the largest sports and cultural event Denmark has ever hosted with up to 8,000 participants anticipated. With 35 different sports and cultural activities plus a major human-rights conference, this will be a major LGBT gathering. There are also two major exhibitions planned as part of the World. Outgames. First, Lost and Found-Queering the Archive at Kunsthallen Nikolaj-incorporates film, installation art and photography, creating private memories and experiences that surpass the usual barriers of gender and sexuality. Second, HOMO/BI/Trans is a special exhibition of LGBT history at the Museum of Copenhagen. Add to this the annual Pride festivities and one can be sure that Copenhagen is the gay place to be this summer in late July and early August.
In recognition of these important celebrations and anniversaries, SAS ( Scandinavian Airlines ) is offering special fares and discounts for the LGBT community to attend. With direct flights from Chicago, New York, Seattle and Washington, D.C., SAS is hoping to make it easier for North Americans to attend the World Outgames plus the summer festivities and celebrations. In addition, with the launch of their new gay Web site www.flysas.com/gay they are emphasizing the importance of this year in Denmark. But undoubtedly their outstanding customer service will make the journey to Copenhagen a pleasant start to any holiday.
Almost all of Copenhagen's gay places or businesses are located in the inner city, within walking distance from each other and making it very easy to experience the lively gay scene. Boasting two lesbian bars, a dozen gay men's bars, numerous gay or gay-friendly cafes and restaurants plus several nearby gay beaches, Copenhagen affords a really gay vacation experience for all. The Copenhagen Gay Map or Out & About Gay Magazine are excellent guides to the city and are available online for pre-trip planning. With half a dozen gay Bed and Breakfasts and gay-friendly boutique hotels like Hotel Front, a vacation here can be a genuine gay-getaway.
And then there's the shopping along Northern Europe's longest pedestrian street with its exclusive fashion houses, as well as a complex maze of narrow streets and districts just off the beaten track. Enjoy the unique consumerism at Storm, Tiger of Sweden, Bruuns Bazaar, Oz, and many more. If only the best is good enough for you then Illum's Universe for Men is a must! Danish design is a world leader and whether you are looking for clothes, household items, or a unique gift to take back home then you will find it within the shopping districts of Copenhagen. Be sure to pick-up the essential shopping guide published by Wonderful Copenhagen for inspiration and helpful designer information.
Getting around this city is very easy on foot, by public transit—Metro or S-train—or even renting your own bicycle from the city's rental racks. There are also several tour guides catering exclusively to the LGBT traveler and ensuring that one doesn't miss a single venue in this very gay community.
So whether you want to celebrate the 20th-anniversary milestone of same-sex marriage, experience the second World Outgames and Pride Festival, or simply enjoy the incredible gay-friendly lifestyle, Copenhagen is a must-visit to Scandinavia this summer. Who knows? You might even take a liking to a viking!
