Lucia procession in kayak is a floating Christmas tradition in Aarhus

Text by: Christina – Photo: Henrik Sørensen, copyright

On Friday evening, there was a real Christmas atmosphere in Aarhus, as the city offered three different Lucia processions. While some chose to experience Lucia at ARoS or with ReThinker on Strøget, we found our way down to the harbor to witness the special procession, Lucia in Kayak, and it did not disappoint. Standing at the water's edge and watching illuminated kayaks and paddleboards glide through the darkness with Aarhus Ø as a backdrop was simply magical.

Liquid Christmas atmosphere

The creative spectacle began at the Aarhus Canoe and Kayak Club at the Marina, where you could already feel the Christmas spirit spreading before the start. The participants had really put their heart and soul into their decorations – kayaks and paddleboards were adorned with fairy lights, Christmas decorations and imaginative details that transformed them into small, floating works of art.

The Lucia song at Dokk1

The first stop was at Dokk1, where the Lucia song was sung in collaboration with the Christmas ship The Swan. The familiar tones mixed with the reflection of the lights in the water created a moment of pure calm, where people just stood still and just let themselves be carried away by the atmosphere.

From here the procession sailed on to the Little House on the Harbor, where the Young Voices were ready to sing. Their clear voices filled the air with Christmas spirit and created little smiles and hums among those present.

Prizes and homemade fun

The cold was starting to bite, but luckily we could warm ourselves with mulled wine and apple slices, which Det Rullende Hjerterum was selling. The taste of mulled wine and the sight of the glowing kayaks were a perfect combination.

As is tradition, prizes were awarded at the end for the best decorated boats. And it was no easy task for the judges, as each boat had its own unique look and every detail was taken care of.

A shining tradition for the people of Aarhus

Lucia in Kayak has become a beloved tradition in Aarhus. Every year, the event brings people together for a unique experience where water, light and community come together in a higher unity. Aarhus Ø with its Christmas lights and modern architecture forms a beautiful setting for an evening that exudes coziness and warmth.

One of the spectators in attendance put the experience into words:
“It is so simple and yet so beautiful. We will definitely experience it again next year.”

Lucia in Kajak has really established itself as one of the most cozy and atmospheric Christmas traditions in Aarhus – an evening where light, community and real Christmas spirit merge together in the most beautiful way.