Happy birthday, Gågade!

Last  Friday, April 19th,  Holstebro celebrated the 50th anniversary of its oldest shopping street. A part of Østergade that runs from Store Torv down to Brostråede was declared a permanent pedestrian street in March 1963, making it the second oldest in Denmark, next to Strøget in Copenhagen. From its ideation, the humble street has since branched out into the present pedestrian network that we now know.

Currently, Holstebro and its shopping streets enjoy a reputation of  being one of the most charming and culturally vibrant in the country. Among its many recognition is the title of  Most Beautiful Commercial Town the last 4 times; in 2006, 2008, 2010 and most recently in 2012. One stroll in the city center and it's easy to see why.

To take part in our town's Golden Celebration,  we are counting down the top five reasons why we love Holstebro's gågade:

5. Shopping

The town's cozy streets offer an exciting shopping experience like no other. The streets are lined with a good mix of modern and specialty shops, ranging from specialty, designer, outlet and even vintage. While shopping in Holstebro, it's really hard to leave empty-handed!

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Insider tip: 
Watch out for the coming Open by Night events for the best shopping deals. If you're looking for a thrifty find, there is a big outdoor flea market held in town on the last Sunday of each month. Have fun scoring bargains on everything from second hand fashion, retro trinkets and household gadgets.

4.  Food

One will never get hungry  in the streets of Holstebro.  The town is lined with restaurants and cafes that offer a wide array of  gastronomic choices, ranging from traditional Danish food to foreign specialties. Whether you are looking for gourmet dining or just grabbing a quick pølser downtown, there will always be something to suit your taste and budget.

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Insider tip:  Pick a spot to people watch and enjoy a cup of coffee al fresco in Kaffeladen. For a quick bite as you run past the main shopping street, a pizza slice for 25 kr is available at Botan Pizza and Kebab House. If you prefer a fancy dining option, visit Restaurant Under Klippen for an authentic gourmet Scandinavian experience.

3. Fun

 Holstebro offers fun activities for every taste and whim. Because the town is compact, a lot of its leisure spots are located within walking distance of the city center. Whether you are looking for cultural activities or a great night out, Holstebro has something for you.

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Insider tip:  Always stay updated on the exciting local activities and events throughout the year by visiting the site, KulturSpot. For happy hour treats downtown, beer is sold for 4 for 100kr at Tobaks Fabriken. 
 

2.  Art

The city streets are just teeming with art, begging to inspire the creative spirit in you. Statues, sculptures and many curious artworks dot almost every nook and cranny on the streets, adding to the charm that's uniquely Holstebro. Perhaps the most iconic and representative of the city's attitude towards arts is what the locals refer to as "Maren".

Woman on Cart in bronze by Alberto Giacometti

Insider tip: To learn more about the different sculptures scattered in Holstebro, take a copy of this with you on your next visit to town. Alternatively, Holstebro offers free guided tour in English and Danish every summer.  For meet-up point and schedules, click here. 

Last but not the least..

1.  People

The city has a small-town, close knit feel among its residents, making the fellowship in Holstebro one of the warmest and open-minded bunch that you'll meet in Denmark. Cultural awareness and diversity are an integral part of the city's objectives, hence the various programs and activities that assist newcomers in integrating into the community. Holstebro has many organizations for its citizens to be involved in, among which are clubs for sports, hobbies, internationals and various other initiatives.

Insider tip:  Holstebro International is a wonderful way to meet locals and expats in town. We host fun and informative events throughout the year where you'll meet awesome new people.  Check out our event calendar for upcoming activities and events!

We hope our handy tips help you start in exploring the city in a new light and we hope to see you around town!


Sources:

"Most Beautiful Commercial Town in Denmark" . Visit Holstebro n.d. < http://www.visitholstebro.dk/ln-int/west-jutland/shopping/most-beautiful-commercial-town-denmark>

Sørensen, M.G.  "Østergade var den første officielle gågade", Holstebro Onsdag  p. 36, 17 April 2013.