In previous discussions on How to Live in Denmark, I’ve touched upon “The Danish Year,” a series of seasonal events that, while not formal holidays, are deeply woven into the fabric of Danish culture. In 2025, I plan to launch a monthly podcast that delves into these aspects, exploring how they reflect Denmark’s past and inform its future.
At the heart of December festivities lies the beloved Nisse, a figure steeped in centuries of Danish folklore. Throughout the month, this mischievous gnome garners far more attention than Santa Claus, who has just one major day of celebration.
Characterized by their short stature and distinctive pointed red hats, Nisse are often mistaken for Christmas elves. Yet, the distinction is significant: while elves assist Santa in his workshop, Nisse lead busy lives entwined with the households they inhabit.
These playful creatures reside within the walls of homes, engaging in antics that include hiding everyday items or transforming milk into unexpected hues. Their appetite for rice pudding is legendary; a bowl left out on December 24th is expected, or face the consequences of their mischief.
The Financial Impact of Santa
In Denmark, the Santa tradition is not just cherished; it has blossomed into a thriving business. While Statistics Denmark doesn’t specifically track expenditure on Santa-related items, my informal survey at a local housewares store sheds light on the phenomenon.
Gifts for Your Household Elf
Currently, our inventory boasts 455 Nisse-themed products, ranging from cuddly fabric gnome dolls and decorative ornaments to hand-painted figurines. Each polyresin figurine, with names like Asbjørn, Thorkild, Elvin, Liam, and Olivia, brings a little charm to shelves across homes.
Moreover, we cater to the practical needs of these elusive elves—think tiny doors for nighttime escapades, pixie doormats, and even wooden shoes. These shoes have historical significance in Denmark; one popular euphemism for death translates to “putting on the clogs,” meaning someone has sadly departed.
The Enduring Appeal of Santa
Our shop is also stocked with delightful miniature items for the Nisse, including tiny rocking chairs, honey cakes, sleds, and old-fashioned toolboxes. Interestingly, we even offer tiny bowls of rice pudding, ensuring that no elf goes hungry.
The appeal of these enchanting gifts transcends generations, attracting families with young children as well as solitary older women. Rumor has it that actress Greta Garbo, in her later years, maintained an entire family of Nisse beneath her sofa.
A Different Kind of Magic
For families, Santa becomes a source of surprise and delight, delivering gifts throughout the holiday season. While some choose to celebrate every day in December, others reserve gift-giving for Sundays in Advent. Our shop sees a surge in demand for small Advent gifts during this season.
A crawling elf or crawling goblin
Additionally, many families hang up crawling elves—charming paper or plastic figures that seem to climb the walls or windows. Although less popular than before, perhaps due to their low cost, they remain a nostalgic nod to simpler times.
Office Traditions
In the workplace, Santa takes on another role. Many offices embrace the spirit of giving by assigning elf friends for secret gift exchanges. Employees might even don pointed hats, a humorous touch that reflects a light-hearted atmosphere, especially when worn by a department head.
Cultural Misunderstandings
Yet, these enchanting hats can lead to misunderstandings, particularly among international colleagues. I recall an awkward moment during my time at Carlsberg, where French colleagues were notably resistant when it came time to wear the iconic red and white elf hat for a video greeting. My Danish coworkers were taken aback; after all, Santa is such a core part of our Christmas culture that our enthusiasm seemed to differ dramatically from theirs.
Global Counterparts
Denmark’s Nisse finds its counterparts in other cultures—Norway and Sweden share similar traditions, while Germany features gnomes and Ireland boasts leprechauns. However, nowhere else do these figures hold such a pivotal place in the Christmas celebration.
Small, endearing, and clever, Nisse often outsmart larger creatures, a quality that resonates with Denmark’s national pride—an image of a small but capable nation.
