Help Aalborg Carnival: What should next year’s theme be?
Every year, Aalborg Carnival brings joy and creativity to the streets, as thousands of people come together for one big, colorful celebration.
But behind the glitter, costumes, and confetti lies a strong sense of community – and in 2026, that spirit will be used for something even greater.
Aalborg Carnival has set out to shine a spotlight on youth mental health. That’s why they are now inviting the whole city – and the rest of the carnival participants – to help decide next year’s theme.
“We know that Aalborg Carnival creates joy, community, and well-being, but we also want to be visible when things aren’t going well,” says Jeanett Kaare, spokesperson for Aalborg Carnival.
“For us, well-being isn’t just about moments of celebration – it’s about standing together all year round. That’s why we need our guests’ help to find a theme that embraces both creativity, celebration, and mental health.”
From celebration to community
With this new initiative, Aalborg Carnival aims to be more than just a one-day party.
In 2025, the Aalborg Carnival Foundation was established with the goal of strengthening the carnival’s role year-round – especially as a platform for creativity, community, and youth well-being.
An important step in that direction is finding a 2026 theme that ties it all together. And that’s where you come in.
“We are calling for creative, quirky, and inspiring suggestions for what the theme should be for Aalborg Carnival 2026,” the organizers say.
Your suggestion could become part of something bigger – something that kicks off the party while also creating space for reflection, connection, and togetherness.

Can you find a theme that “rhymes” with well-being?
It doesn’t have to literally rhyme, but it should feel right. It can be fun, serious, silly, poetic, visual, or something completely different.
The most important thing is that it builds a bridge between celebration and community, between costumes and connection, between mental health and a sense of belonging.
So: Do you have a great idea for a theme that both brings smiles and puts the spotlight on youth mental health? Then now’s the time to unleash your inner carnival creative and send in your suggestion in the comment section on Facebook – or send an email here.
Themes through the years:
2025: My True Self
2024: Fantastic Creatures
2023: Gold, Glitter and Recycling
2022: When I Grow Up
2021: Canceled due to COVID-19
2020: When I Grow Up (Canceled due to COVID-19)
2019: The Four Seasons
2018: By Land, by Sea and in the Air
2017: The World is Full Of
2016: Once Upon a Time
2015: Taboo
2014: Trend of the Times
2013: Angels and Demons
2012: The World Upside Down
2011: Sexzoological Garden
2010: Mars and Venus
2009: La Dolce Vita – The Sweet Life
2008: Magic in the Air
2007: Masquerade
2006: Exotic – Erotic
2005: The Shepherdess and the Chimney Sweep
2004: Atlantis
2003: Trends, Trans and Traditions
2002: Reflection
2001: Faith, Hope and Love
2000: Toward New Horizons
1999: Where the Rainbow Ends
1998: Our Motherly Sea
1997: Satire and Satyrs
1996: East of the Sun and West of the Moon
1995: Fertility and Colors
1994: The Nordic Region in 1000 Years
1993: Mask, Myth and Music