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Record Attempts, Community and Festive Nostalgia

29 August – 6 September 2026

Since the very first Aarhus Festival in 1965, Den Gamle By has played a central role in the celebrations. For many people in Aarhus, the museum became the heart of the festival, with opening ceremonies, markets, music, theatre and street performers filling its historic streets.

From Saturday 29 August to Sunday 6 September, these traditions return with boating on the river, the classic swing carousel and a record attempt for the longest paper aeroplane throw. A week of activities, community spirit and festive nostalgia for visitors of all ages.

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Aarhus Festival at Den Gamle By, 1968

At the Festival Grounds, you can view photo displays featuring images from the 1968 Aarhus Festival at Den Gamle By.

Follow the posters

Throughout Den Gamle By, you can discover posters from the Aarhus Festival in 1968, 1974, 1987, 1992 and 2014.

Set a paper aeroplane record 

Join Den Gamle By’s paper aeroplane throwing record attempt at the Festival Grounds. For children up to 18 years. 10.00 – 17.00

Boating on the river

Try the hand-pulled ferry at the Harbour and pull yourselves across the river in the little black boat. 11.00 – 17.00

 

The swing carousel

Take a ride on the swing carousel at the Festival Grounds, home to the travelling performers. 11.00 – 17.00

The Æblskive & Ice Cream Stall

Try the traditional Danish 'æbleskiver' with a summer twist of ice cream and lemon curd, or treat yourself to a Festival waffle. 11.00 – 17.00