The Danish winter, which resembled the beginning of a new ice age this year, has finally come to an end. Instead spring has arrived and it is high time to get outside and enjoy a bit of sun. A great opportunity for doing exactly that is the upcoming lifestyle festival Ledreborgs Livsstilsdage, which takes place over the Whitsun weekend at the picturesque Ledreborg Castle about 50 km west of Copenhagen.
The festival dates back 18 years and was the first of its kind in Denmark. It is still the biggest lifestyle festival in the country, attracting thousands of people every year and covering areas such as gastronomy, fashion, fitness, wellness, house and garden. It is also a very family-friendly event as there will be numerous activities for little ones (such as circus, pony riding, facial painting etc), so there are indeed many reasons for visiting the festival as it caters for people of all ages and tastes.
However, no matter how old you are or what your interests might be, most people share an interest in good food, which is something you will find plenty of at this festival. Everything from delux variations on traditional Danish smørrebrød to fancy cakes and beers will be available from the many food stands. Or, if you’d prefer to find your own private lunch spot on the castle grounds, a picnic box prepared by the successful Danish chef Claus Meyer and his crew can be purchased. A new initiative this year is an organic food market with fresh and scrumptious local products.
If you eat a cake too many at one of the food stalls, do not despair but take a walk to the sport and spare time area where you can find inspiration and tips for getting more active. Whatever sport you are into, or if you simply want to have a look at the latest sporting gadgets, there should be something for you.
Those who are into fashion must head towards the old cowshed, which will be turned into a big outlet area with clothes, shoes, bags, jewellery and other accessories available at special festival prices. Afterwards you might want to spoil yourself even further by visiting the anti-age area, where you can hear about the latest creams and treatments that will help you look and feel younger.
For all garden enthusiasts, spring and summer are the best parts of the year, and at Ledreborg Livsstilsdage you will find a wealth of exhibitors ready to feed your creativity and give you green fingers. Likewise you can find inspiration for renewing your home no matter whether you live in a two-floor house in Hellerup or in a two-room apartment in Amager.
Finally, if you don’t trust the unpredictable Danish summer and want to ensure a few weeks of sun somewhere else, a new initiative this year is a travel agency area with speciality trips, activity holidays as well as spa and wellness trips.
Ledreborgs Livsstilsdage
Ledreborg Slot, Ledreborg Allé 2D, Lejre; starts Fri, ends Mon, open 10:00-18:00; tickets 125kr, children 50kr, concessions available; www.ledreborglivsstil.dk
