Translated from French, ‘déjà vu’ literally means ‘already seen’ – an apt phrase if you’ve recently moved to Denmark, as you’re most probably reliving your early days at university.
You’re a fresher again!
Your parents have finally stopped calling every five minutes, everybody knows where you can buy cannabis, and you can’t really understand the locals. And now, bang on cue, is the ‘freshers’ fair’, in this case the Culture Østerbro Fair for expats.
Mainly aimed at new arrivals to the city (the first years), this is your fast-track door to laying down roots in Copenhagen at record speed as it introduces you to sports, hobbies and networking opportunities that can lead to employment, friends and a fulfilled life in your adopted home.
The whole family will be able to find something to improve their new Danish existence and have a great time doing it.
Meeting the challenge
According to Tanja Larsen, one of the organisers of the event, being a new arrival is challenging.
“Moving to Denmark is hard at first, and so is trying to understand a different system,” she told the Copenhagen Post Weekly.
“We believe that by creating a friendly and laid-back atmosphere we can conjure a cosy feeling that is vital in bringing people together at the event and encouraging them to make the most out of what it offers.”
Organic and spontaneous
Larsen hopes the Culture Østerbro Fair will offer a traditionally Danish approach to adapting to life abroad.
“The set-up for the fair this year is aimed at encouraging an organic approach,” she continued.
“We want people to arrive looking for a sport and leave interested in gardening. It is very important people are open to exploring new possibilities.”
Sport and theatre
It can be particularly challenging for children to integrate into a new country. Not only do they have to start a new school and make new friends, they have to learn the language, develop hobbies and deal with the pressures of growing up.
The Culture Østerbro Fair most particularly encourages children to take up a sport – the options include badminton and rugby on the day – and explore their creative side, at the arty activities planned for the day.
Meanwhile, Mum and Dad needn’t miss out, with lots of sports – including skating, ice hockey, football and fencing – and other hobby-orientated clubs in attendance.
I’m ready Mr DeMille!
And maybe you’ll feel a long-standing urge to take the stage and experience the limelight, as the Copenhagen Theatre Circle will be offering the chance to join their productions and music events.
This year over 500 people are expected to attend the event, and with entertainment ongoing throughout the day – including magicians, children’s play areas and food and drink stalls – it should be a fun and worthwhile day.
