Which Danish capital-city square is known for a New Year's Eve tradition of jumping off a chair at midnight?

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The Danish capital-city square associated with the New Year's Eve tradition of jumping off a chair at midnight is Copenhagen's City Hall Square.

In Denmark, people may stand on chairs, sofas, or other raised surfaces and jump down as the clock reaches midnight. The action is popularly described as jumping into the new year. In public celebrations, Copenhagen's City Hall Square is a prominent gathering place, with the City Hall clock providing a recognizable focus.

The custom is a playful superstition rather than an official ceremony. It is often performed in private homes as well as in city-center celebrations, and participation varies from person to person. People also exchange greetings, raise glasses, and watch fireworks.

Copenhagen's New Year's Eve should not be confused with a single nationally fixed event held only in the square. Danish celebrations take place throughout the country. The chair-jumping custom is also distinct from the traditional New Year's speech delivered by Denmark's monarch, which is broadcast before midnight.

Source: Wikipedia · fact-checked Oct. 2026

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