Copenhagen’s Outdoor Nightlife Might Face Early Closures

Copenhagen’s outdoor nightlife may be forced to close earlier. The city council is considering new regulations to close alfresco dining and drinking establishments by 10 PM on weekdays, two hours earlier than the current closing time.

Residents may soon be bidding farewell to their outdoor nightlife culture and open-air experiences could come with a higher price tag. According to a report, businesses will pay an additional fee for operating outdoor spaces. 

While many Copenhageners cherish the city’s nighttime, some residents argue that outdoor venues disrupt the neighbourhoods with noise and litter. 

To address the issue, Copenhagen’s officials are set to discuss new – and earlier – closing times for nightlife venues. But the move stirred up controversy among business owners, with many worrying the restrictions could impact the city’s economic landscape. 

The hospitality industry has already taken a hit during the COVID-19 pandemic, so further restrictions could be the final straw for some venues. 

Jeppe Møller-Herskind, the commercial director of HORESTA, a trade organization representing restaurants and hotels, argues that the proposal is shortsighted. He believes outdoor seating provides a way to “organize” people by keeping them within a restaurant’s area.

Møller-Herskind adds that closing outdoor spaces is a double-edged sword. Early closures might disperse patrons to other locations, leading to more noise disturbances.

On the other hand, Søren Rud, the head of the Nørre Kvarters Beboerforening residents’ association, supports the earlier closing time. He says that residents don’t want a quiet suburb, but rather a balance between city life and residential areas.

While residents and businesses await the final decision, it remains uncertain how the regulations will affect the Copenhagen’s outdoor nightlife.