How will a non-drinker be treated in Copenhagen?

Question

The general impression I'm getting about Copenhagen as I research it (I'm getting ready to study abroad there) that drinking alcohol is a huge part of their culture. However I'm a non-drinker. Will I have problems fitting into the social scene if I abstain, or should I become a social drinker to fit in? Is it a social faux-paus not to drink over there? I only want to hear from people who have been to Copenhagen or Denmark in general. Thanks!

Answer 1

Its not a faux-pas to not drink in Denmark.  You can order a soda or a water with your friends that are drinking beer, and while they might tease (in a friendly way) once in a while, they'll respect your choice.

The huge part of the culture is 'at hygge sig' which doesn't have a direct translation into English, but it's about enjoying your time, enjoying your friends and life in general.

There's a 'club scene' and a 'college scene' - depending on which college you're attending, one is more prevalent than the other - Copenhagen University has more of a club scene amongst the students, since clubs are more accessible. Roskilde University has more of a college scene, with 'fredegsbar' (literally Friday bar) where they usually have music and dancing at the University.

Both scenes can be enjoyed and participated in without drinking.

Answer 2

no just be yourself

Answer 3

I spent a semester In copenhagen studying as well.  I am not a big drinker myself and while I found that a lot of people drank while I was there, it was entirely (and quite easily) possible to have a fabulous time without drinking.

The Danes are really laid back, if you want to drink, fine, if you don't that's cool too.

BTW, I studied with DIS, if you are as well, I hope you got the Folkehojskole option as it was the coolest.  And a bit of advice, because the drinking age is only like 16 in Denmark, at first the Americans I was with wanted to drink constantly but eventually the novelty of going into bars wore off and they calmed down.

If you aren't living in a Folkehojskole, try to befriend someone who is.  The Grundtvigs Hojskole in Hillerod is absolutely AMAZING and easy to get to.  Just take the E train to Hillerod and then take the 701 bus.

They used to have theme parties every weekend and were probably the most social people I have ever had the pleasure of meeting.

Answer 4

No country forces you to drink what you don't drink as an unit. The same for the Danes. And they are not as drunk as you think.