Jamborees in Denmark
Over the past 11 years, the Guides and Scouts of Denmark have successfully organized three national Jamborees (Spejdernes Lejr in 2012, 2017, and 2022), each held in different locations and drawing an average of 35,000 participants.
What is scouting in Denmark like?
We’re proud of our guiding and scouting tradition, which involves camping in tents, cooking over open fires, and working in patrols. Water and power will be laid down, and a “Scout City” will be built. These core elements were introduced in the 1924 World Scout Jamboree we hosted and have since been embraced in subsequent scouting events all over the world.
Our approach emphasizes youth leading youth, giving young people significant responsibilities. We value volunteer participation and leadership development.
Denmark’s scouting history is rich, shaped by camp life and a commitment to adventure scouting. Our community has grown, welcoming diverse members who contribute to our vibrant tapestry. One remarkable chapter in this journey is the creation of Youth Island, which stands as a testament to our commitment to providing a vibrant and engaging space for the youth, becoming a hub of inspiration and connection.
Our maritime tradition involves scouting at sea, turning waves into classrooms and ships into vessels of discovery. This unique experience not only instills a love for the sea but also imparts valuable life skills.
In Denmark, scouting is more than a tradition; it’s a dynamic adventure. As we sail into the future, our focus on community, resilience, and the spirit of adventure remains strong.
At the Jamboree in Denmark 2026 we will be located at the same place as in 2022.
How do we live in the camp?
Within “scout city” there is a central core with things like a tent supermarket, gear shop, small food vendors, pharmacy and event areas. There are then subdivisions that each have their own tuk shops, charging stations, and support office. In the subdivisions we live in homecamps with our friends in tents, making our food on bonfire or gas stoves. If you live with a Danish group you will probably build your table with spars and rope. Maybe some crazy tower or portal as well. Some will make all their food on a bonfire, some will only have the fireplace for “hygge”/campfire and cook on gas stoves.
Can I shower and how are the toilets?
Both are situated in several places at camp. The showers and toilets are very fancy and contained on large trailers with individual cabins.
Jamboree Denmark in 2022 was also held in Hedeland Naturpark and hosted by three bordering municipalities. 32,000 scouts took part and this time more than 5,000 international scouts from 52 countries participated. The camp offered a wide educational programme and activities, and volunteer scouts had built a structure with 22 scout tents surrounding the main stage.
The second jamboree in Denmark was held in Sønderborg in southern Jutland. More than 37,000 participants took part with over 4,600 international scouts from 44 countries. The theme for the camp was “leaving traces” and to symbolize this a 12 meter high and 34 meters wide observation tower in the shape of a hiking boot was built by volunteer scouts. The tower still stands in Sønderborg today for the locals to use.
The first jamboree in Denmark was held in 2012 in Holstebro in Northern Jutland. Before this joint camp, each organization had a tradition of hosting their own Jamborees. This first unified camp for all five organizations lasted for 9 days and had more than 37,000 participants.
What’s for dinner?
For breakfast there will be oats, cornflakes and bread. Lunch is typically open faced sandwiches, you don’t have to eat rye bread, white bread will be available. Dinner is a wide range of different foods, both international and Danish food. You can find the cookbook at this page. Have a look and feel free to bring some of your own spices and treats to share with your Danish friends. And by the way, you can drink water from the tap.
How does the day go?
Normally we get up, and make breakfast around 7. Some camps will have a flagpole so there will be a ceremony to raise the flag, if you have a flag, you can ask if there is a pole for that.
There will be activities all day, some will last all day and need a packed lunch, others you will be able to go to your home camp and eat lunch between noon and 2 PM. Normally we will start preparing our dinner around 4 PM and eat around 6 PM. Some nights you can join an activity, some will be big events at the scene (main stage). There will also be nights where you can join a local campfire or just get to know new friends. Be sure when signing up for activities that they are taking place in a language you are able to understand or you may have to learn Danish very quickly.
Culture and art
Denmark, known for its rich culture and picturesque landscapes, offers a delightful blend of tradition and modernity. With a monarchy adding regal charm and a strong commitment to democracy, the country embraces inclusive governance.
Culturally vibrant, Denmark boasts a legacy of influential figures like Hans Christian Andersen and a thriving design scene in Copenhagen. The nation’s dedication to green energy aligns with its love for the outdoors, attracting adventurers and eco-conscious individuals alike.
Life in local association flourishes, fostering a sense of community and engagement across sports, arts, and various interest groups. The Danish language, a melodic Nordic tongue, reflects the country’s heritage, warmly shared by locals.
Efficient transportation
With extensive experience from hosting national jamborees, our transportation system is well-functioning. We aim to facilitate seamless journeys for scouts and guides, promoting the use of buses and public transport. In our planning, we will designate official entry points, ensuring readily available bus transportation to the campsite.
Copenhagen Airport, a major regional hub, enhances connectivity with convenient connecting flights, strategically located within a 40 minutes drive to our campsite Hedeland Naturpark.
Mild weather conditions
Denmark’s varied weather, from cozy winters to sunlit summers, enhances its appeal. We will host Jamboree Denmark 2026 from July 18th to 26th of July, taking advantage of ideal outdoor conditions.
Daytime temperatures range from 20°C to 26°C, with cooler evenings around 14-15°C. Summer in Denmark maintains 75% average humidity, and while July is warm, anticipate some rainfall, averaging 66 millimeters for the month.
