A 24-year-old woman from northern Denmark plans to welcome strangers into her family’s restaurant on Christmas Eve to make sure no one spends the holiday alone.
A Simple Act of Kindness Turns Into a Community Event
It all began in June when 24-year-old Nadja Mygdam from Aalborg helped an elderly colleague, about 80 years old, move out of her home. During the move, her colleague mentioned she had spent the past four Christmas Eves alone. That conversation stayed with Nadja. She wanted to do something for people who didn’t have anyone to share the holiday with.
This December, she is turning that thought into action. Nadja will host Christmas Eve for people feeling lonely or without plans in Løkken, a coastal town in North Jutland.
Family Support and Local Spirit
Nadja’s family is playing a big part in making it happen. The dinner will take place at her father’s restaurant, Myggens, where she, her father Martin, and her mother are working together to organize the event. Their goal is simple—to make Christmas Eve better for everyone who attends than the year before.
Local support has also poured in. Businesses have donated gifts, Christmas trees, and decorations. Even nearby Ingstrup Efterskole offered to help decorate the restaurant for the evening. Nadja described how surprised she was by the amount of community enthusiasm. From small companies to individuals, many wanted to help make the gathering special.
Online Attention and Warm Reactions
After Nadja and her father posted a short video about the event on Facebook, it spread quickly. Hundreds of people shared their posts, allowing the story of her initiative to reach far beyond their local area. Some commented that her idea touched their hearts. Others said it inspired them to start helping those who might be alone on Christmas too.
In Denmark, where spending Christmas with family is important, it can be difficult for some to admit they will be alone. Nadja hopes this open invitation will change that, even if only a few guests accept it this year.
Keeping It Nonprofit and Welcoming
Guests will pay 300 kroner each to join the dinner, which covers food, drinks, and gifts. Nadja stresses that the event is nonprofit, and all collected money will go straight to covering costs. Her dream scenario would be to have around 75 guests, but so far only four have signed up, including the elderly colleague who first inspired her.
If fewer than five people register, the family may have to reconsider because of costs. Still, Nadja remains optimistic. She believes that once people hear about the event, more might step forward.
The dinner starts at 4 p.m. on December 24 at Restaurant Myggens in Løkken, and guests can stay as long as they like. Nadja and her family plan to keep the doors open into the early morning if necessary.
Bringing the Danish Christmas Spirit to Life
The project reflects a broader Danish value—helping others feel included during the holidays. It’s a reminder that the heart of Christmas in Denmark lies not only in traditions but also in community. By opening their doors, the Mygdam family shows that even small efforts can have a deep emotional impact.
With the scent of roasted duck and Christmas cookies soon filling the air, Nadja hopes that her idea will bring comfort and joy to a few who might otherwise have spent the evening in silence. Sometimes one person’s compassion is enough to spark warmth across an entire community.
Sources and References
The Danish Dream: How Does Denmark Celebrate Christmas?
The Danish Dream: Best Restaurants in Denmark for Foreigners
TV2: 24-årig åbner døren for fremmede juleaften
