Studenterkørsel 2024 in Denmark

Annually, at the end of the school year, in towns of all sizes all over Denmark, young people ride in open-backed trucks. Youngsters are drinking beer, dancing, jumping into fountains, and partying. This tradition may seem weird to you, but it's just another generation celebrating finishing high school in Denmark.

The young people are called 'studenter,' and they wear white graduation caps by which you can identify them. The celebration sometimes can take up to two weeks. 'Studenter' decorate their studenterkørsel, the trucks, and then ride across their hometowns, stopping at each of their parents' homes. The parents provide food and drinks.

Studenterkørsel History

The tradition of Danish high school students driving around towns dates back to the 1930s. At that time, "studenter" were riding in horse carriages. The central element of the celebration has always been the cap or studenterhuen, which appeared as a traditional upper-secondary school headwear in the 1850s. The original cap was black with a white rope. First, only male gymnasium students wore them; females started wearing caps, too, in the 1930s. Modern student caps are often red and white, with the Dannebrog cross pins. It's considered inappropriate to wear the cap before graduation, as this allegedly can bring misfortune and lead to bad grades.

Celebration in Copenhagen

Some of the loudest Studenterkørsel festivities traditionally take place in the capital city of Copenhagen. Among the most popular places for student graduates is Kongens Nytorv Square, the largest city plaza, located at the end of the pedestrian street Strøget. Student trucks often go around the traffic circle with the equestrian statue in the middle. Storkespringvandet, or Stork Fountain, near Christiansborg Palace, is another popular stop. Teens dip their feet or even jump in the water! During the festivities, Copenhagen bars, restaurants, and shops often offer various student specials.

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