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Contents
From 1843 to modern-day wonderland
Early beginnings (1843 to 1900)
Georg Carstensen’s vision for Tivoli was to create a space where people could escape into art, culture, and nature. With the support of King Christian VIII, he transformed a piece of Copenhagen into a lush garden, and Tivoli opened its doors in 1843. Early on, Tivoli’s focus wasn’t on roller coasters or thrilling rides. It became a cultural haven for theatre, music, and fine art, setting the foundation for its enduring cultural significance.
Tivoli concerts
Growth & expansion (1900 to 1950s)
The introduction of the first roller coaster in 1900 marked a major turning point, signaling Tivoli's shift towards becoming a full-fledged amusement park. The Tivoli Concert Hall, opened in 1861, became one of the most significant venues in Copenhagen, drawing classical music lovers from far and wide. Over time, Tivoli developed into a dual-purpose destination, offering both amusement rides and opera, ballet, and orchestral performances.
Tivoli Gardens rides
Mid-century Renaissance (1960s to 1980s)
The mid-20th century marked a renaissance for Tivoli Gardens, with major renovations and the expansion of attractions and cultural offerings. The renovated Tivoli Concert Hall, opening in 1956, became a hub for international performances, cementing Tivoli’s role as a cultural powerhouse. In the 1960s, with the addition of the Ferris Wheel, Tivoli transformed into a year-round destination, attracting families, art lovers, and thrill-seekers.
Tivoli Gardens hotels
Modern Tivoli (1990s to present)
The introduction of seasonal events like Halloween and Christmas in the 2000s gave Tivoli a year-round appeal, allowing it to draw crowds regardless of the season. Tivoli also embraced new technologies, adding thrilling new attractions such as the Demon and Vertigo, which pushed the boundaries of amusement park experiences. Beyond rides, Tivoli solidified its status as a cultural venue, with the Tivoli Symphony Orchestra performing in the Concert Hall and world-renowned artists taking the stage for international concerts.
Halloween at Tivoli GardensFun facts and trivia about Tivoli Gardens
- Walt Disney’s inspiration: Walt Disney visited Tivoli Gardens in the 1950s and credited it as one of his inspirations for creating Disneyland.
- Second-oldest amusement park: Tivoli is the second-oldest amusement park in the world, opening in 1843, just a year after Bakken in Denmark.
- The Demon roller coaster: The Demon, introduced in 2004, is one of Tivoli’s most thrilling rides, featuring multiple loops and stunning views of the park.
- Cultural hub: Tivoli is not just an amusement park, but a cultural landmark, hosting over 1,000 performances each year, including concerts, ballets, and operas.
- A place for royalty: Tivoli has long been a favorite spot for Danish royalty, with members of the royal family regularly visiting and attending events.
- Tivoli Gardens on film: The theme park has appeared in multiple films, including the 1999 movie The Parent Trap, showcasing its iconic beauty and charm.
- Tivoli’s Youth Guard: Founded in 1844, the Tivoli Youth Guard is the world’s oldest youth band, performing regularly and adding to the park’s cultural legacy.
Frequently asked questions about Tivoli Gardens’ history
When was Tivoli Gardens founded?
Tivoli Gardens first opened its gates on August 15, 1843, making it one of the oldest amusement parks in the world. That’s right—it's been charming visitors since the 19th century!
Who founded Tivoli Gardens?
It was founded by Georg Carstensen, a Danish army officer with a flair for entertainment, who convinced King Christian VIII that “when the people are amusing themselves, they do not think about politics”.
How did Tivoli Gardens influence Walt Disney?
During his 1950s visit, Disney was inspired by Tivoli’s cleanliness, layout, and magical atmosphere—key ingredients he infused into Disneyland. Without Tivoli, Mickey Mouse may have had a very different home!
Are any of the original 1843 attractions still standing?
Yes! The beloved wooden roller coaster Rutschebanen, built in 1914, is still up and running, and it’s one of the oldest wooden coasters in the world still operating with a brakeman onboard.
Did Hans Christian Andersen visit Tivoli Gardens?
He sure did! The legendary fairytale author visited Tivoli multiple times and was enchanted by its charm. Rumor has it, the park even inspired parts of The Nightingale.
Has Tivoli Gardens changed much since the 1800s?
While rides and tech have evolved, Tivoli has stayed true to its romantic, old-world charm. Strolling its lantern-lit paths still feels like stepping into a timeless tale. The entertainment has gone from pantomimes and peacock-feathered performances in the 1800s to symphony orchestras and international concerts today.
What’s the oldest building in Tivoli Gardens still in use?
That would be the Pantomime Theatre, built in 1874. Known for its Harlequin-led performances and mechanical peacock curtain, it's an icon that hasn’t aged a day.
