In Denmark, the twelve New Year’s Eve chimes in the traditional countdown are called Rådhusklokkerne.
Rådhusklokkerne means “the City Hall bells.” The phrase is associated with the clock bells of Copenhagen City Hall, whose midnight chimes are traditionally followed by celebrations throughout Denmark. Many Danes listen to the broadcast countdown before raising a toast and welcoming January 1.
Danish New Year customs also include jumping from a chair at midnight, a playful gesture symbolizing a leap into the new year. Fireworks and social gatherings are common, and the midnight meal may include foods associated with Danish holiday traditions.
The term is easy to confuse with generic Danish words for church bells or midnight bells. It specifically identifies the city-hall clock bells used in Denmark’s well-known New Year countdown tradition.