Reffen – Skøjteøen

From Industrial Shipyard to Cultural Waterfront Hub

Reffen emerged in 2018 from a neglected industrial site on Refshaleøen, transforming a dusty harbor lot surrounded by abandoned B&W shipyard workshops into Northern Europe's largest street food market. Today, the 12,000 square-meter venue sprawls across the waterfront with colorful shipping containers, reclaimed machinery, and open-air gathering spaces. The transformation preserved the raw industrial character while injecting vibrant energy—old machine halls now host concerts and exhibitions, while the harbor views remain a defining feature of the experience.

A Global Food Destination with Local Roots

Approximately 35 rotating food stalls showcase cuisines from across the world, from Thai and Mexican to Nordic and fusion concepts. The stalls operate within repurposed shipping containers painted in bold colors, creating an instantly recognizable aesthetic. Around 10 bars serve craft beers, wines, cocktails, and hot beverages, while a dedicated coffee shop operates throughout the season. Beyond food, creative workshops, a tattoo studio, glass studio, and vintage clothing vendors add layers of discovery. The on-site Reffen Brewery produces its own beers and offers tastings and tours during the season.

Seasonal Transformations and Year-Round Programming

Reffen operates on a seasonal calendar. From March through September, the market opens daily with extended hours, hosting live concerts, art festivals, DJ sets, drag nights, and creative workshops. The calendar fills with cultural events, from beer festivals in autumn to Halloween celebrations. From November through February, the space transforms into Skøjteøen—an outdoor ice-skating universe featuring two rinks (one for general skating, one for children), surrounded by street food stalls, hot drinks, craft markets, and a packed winter event schedule including karaoke on ice, Christmas markets, and live music performances.

Atmosphere and Social Spaces

The venue thrives on communal gathering. Deckchairs, picnic tables, and bonfire areas create informal seating throughout the grounds. Werkstatt, a converted high-ceilinged machine hall, serves as the largest indoor space, functioning as a dining area, concert venue, and event space regardless of weather. The waterfront setting provides unobstructed harbor views, particularly striking during sunset hours. The raw industrial aesthetic—exposed brick, metal structures, container architecture—contrasts with the lively, colorful energy of food stalls and crowds, creating a distinctive Copenhagen character that feels both gritty and celebratory.

Accessibility and Practical Considerations

Entry to Reffen is free; costs apply only to food and beverages purchased. The venue accommodates various mobility options: cycling is popular with dedicated bike parking, bus service runs frequently via route 2A from Copenhagen Central Station, harbor buses provide scenic water access, and car parking is available on-site (paid). Walking from central Copenhagen takes 25–30 minutes from Nyhavn. During peak hours—particularly weekend afternoons and evenings—the market becomes crowded, with queues at popular food stalls. Limited shade exists on hot days, and public restrooms can experience queues during peak meal times. The outdoor setting means weather significantly impacts comfort, though Werkstatt provides shelter.