My experience at the Copenhagen Open 2022 was one of the most memorable moments I’ve had in the world of skateboarding. This event is a true skate festival, where hundreds of skaters from around the world gather to enjoy and share their passion. Unlike a traditional competition, the Copenhagen Open is a meeting where fun and camaraderie take center stage, with some skaters participating more actively than others. The atmosphere is incredible, filled with a sense of community and unique vibes that make this event truly special.
Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark, is a cosmopolitan city with Nordic architecture that blends the traditional with the modern. It’s a place full of perfect skate spots, harmoniously integrated into the urban landscape. The mayor of Copenhagen works closely with the organizers of the Copenhagen Open to ensure that the event is safe, responsible, and, above all, fun for everyone.
I’ve had the privilege of traveling to Copenhagen on ten different occasions, always with the same purpose: to skate and enjoy this wonderful city. The first time I went, at 17, I participated in a European Volcom final after qualifying among the top five in Madrid. It was my first trip outside Spain, an experience that opened my mind and changed my life, setting new goals such as learning English—a language that has since become an invaluable tool for my later travels and life in general. In fact, it was on one of these trips that I met my wife, who is American.
On another note, for those who don’t know, Copenhagen is a flat city, ideal for cycling—a smart, fast, and fun mode of transportation. The city is interconnected with bike lanes, some as wide as roads and separated from motorized traffic. Sometimes there’s bike congestion, but moving from spot to spot or grabbing something to eat while pedaling and enjoying the scenery is a unique experience I call “Copenhagen Summer Vibes.” With my skateboard attached to the back of my bike, I could always stay on the move, ready to hit the first spot I found.
Aside from bikes, the city has an efficient public transportation system, including electric metro, trains, and buses, though honestly, you won’t need them if you rent a bike during your stay. It’s an economical and very convenient option.
The Copenhagen Open offers a unique opportunity to be close to some of the most recognized professional skaters in the industry. Interacting with them and sharing spaces with skaters of different levels, enthusiasts, and spectators creates an indescribable atmosphere. Some competitions within the event are exclusive to invited skaters, but others are open to anyone with a good level. I particularly remember a contest called “bombhill to slappy” in Nørrebro, a famous city spot known as Superkilen. I decided to participate, leveraging my downhill and slappy experience. The spot is challenging, with an asphalt hill that launches you at full speed toward a 25-meter slappy.
That experience was unforgettable, with skaters like Louie Lopez and Brandon Burleigh alongside me, and hundreds of people watching closely. I spent an hour enjoying it, with adrenaline at its peak but also a calm that allowed me to focus on enjoying the skate. Although my energy ran out after an hour and a memorable fall, that moment is etched in my memory as one of the best of my life. The live music that followed helped ease the pain and extend the fun.
The Copenhagen Open isn’t just skateboarding; it’s a continuous four-day show that includes music, culture, and a multitude of activities. For many, this is the best skate event in the world, and for me, it’s definitely an experience worth living.
In summary, the Copenhagen Open is an event that transcends skateboarding, creating a space where culture and community come together. If you ever have the chance to attend, don’t let it pass you by. Every moment, every conversation, and every trick makes it worth it. See you next time, and don’t forget to explore new horizons with your skateboard!
