Soak in the festivals

Nothing like a festival to soak in the spirit of a city. And so there I was in the middle of the annual Hans Christian Andersen Festival that happens every August. The festival brings the city to life as it teems with 500 cultural and musical events for people of all ages, in celebration of the city's most famous son, H.C. Andersen. Every corner, every street, every market turns into venues for theatre performances, street art, concerts, lightshows, art exhibitions, storytelling, street performances. I also took part in a parade by school kids who were all dressed up like characters from Anderson's fairy tales. The best part is, all these allow free access. 'Anything can happen' - well, that's what the festival's catchphrase is.

Odensealso hosts the Harry Potter Festival every year in October. Go sew you own wizard's cloak, create a wand, and get ready for the numerous magical activities and events: At the market on Gråbrødre Plads you will find a world of curious shops offering all you need as a wizard's apprentice. Mix the right elixirs or write a sensational story for the Daily Prophet - you might even be challenged to a wizard's duel! Not far from the market place you may enter Diagon Alley to meet fantastic beasts and several exciting workshops. You are also welcome to participate in a Quidditch tournament. In fact, you will be given the latest broom models for a battle where only the toughest go on. The Royal School of Ballet as well as the Odense Symphony Orchestra also add to the magical atmosphere.