There are lots of cultural events in Odense, foremost among which are performances by the Odense Symphony Orchestra. Throughout much of the year, concerts are presented in the Carl Nielsen Hall, Claus Bergs Gade 9 (tel. 66-12-00-57 for ticket information). Tickets cost DKK70 to DKK220 ($12-$37/£7-£22), depending on the event. During the warm-weather months, the orchestra's role is less formal. In August, for example, the group is more likely to play outdoors at the marketplace in front of the vegetable stands. Because of their location, these performances have been referred to as "the Vegetable Concerts." In August, on Saturdays at 11am, the orchestra presents free live music at Skovsoen park.
Boogies, Nørregade 21-23 (tel. 66-14-00-39), attracts the most mixed crowd in town, including some of Odense's gay and lesbian population, who blend in with an otherwise straight clientele.
At Odense's railway station, Frank A.'s Café, Jernbanegade 4 (tel. 66-12-27-57), operates as a cafe throughout the day, and as such, draws a respectable crowd of drinkers and diners who appreciate the tasty Danish platters, which cost from DKK79 to DKK225 ($13-$38/£7.90-£23). But the real heart and soul of the place doesn't become visible until after 10pm, when all pretenses of culinary skill are abandoned, and the cafe becomes one of the loudest, wildest, and most raucous nightlife venues in town. Then, live music -- Brazilian, Latin, or simple rock 'n' roll -- transforms the room into everybody's favorite rendezvous. Come here to be convivial, amid a setting that's loaded with kitschy bric-a-brac and dozens of single or wannabe-single local residents. Food service is daily 10am to 10pm; nightlife action runs 10pm to at least 3am, and sometimes later.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
