Caption: Henrik Thykjær, CEO of the Port of Aabenraa, is looking forward to once again opening the port to the public when “Aaben Havn” takes place in September.
Drew Sycamore, Saveus and Dodo and The Dodos are among the names on the lineup. But why is the Port of Aabenraa inviting people to Aaben Havn in September?
On Thursday, March 12, the Port of Aabenraa announced the music programme for this year’s Aaben Havn. The event is an open port day, where the Port of Aabenraa and the companies located at the port invite the public inside the fenced-off area for a day of experiences, insights and activities – ending with a large free concert.
Although the concert attracts a lot of attention, the main purpose of the event is to open up the port and give people an insight into a workplace that most only experience from the outside, explains CEO Henrik Thykjær.
“The Port of Aabenraa is a commercial port, but we are also part of the local community we are situated in. When we opened the port to the public in 2023, we created a very special day together with the companies at the port. That is why there has been a strong desire – especially from the companies – to repeat the experience,” says Henrik Thykjær.
According to the port director, Aaben Havn is a joint initiative between the port and the companies operating there.
“For the companies, it is important that this is not just a one-off event. They want to showcase what happens at the port on a daily basis, while also giving something back to the city and the people who live here,” he says.
Security limited public access
Unlike previous generations, most people today primarily know the port as an area behind a fence. For more than 20 years, Danish commercial ports have been closed to the public.
Following the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, international security regulations were tightened, and with the introduction of the ISPS Code, access to port areas was restricted. As a result, public insight into the role of the port diminished.
“The port is increasingly an important driver of growth and jobs in the area. Aaben Havn gives us the opportunity to open the gates for a day and show what goes on behind the fence – and the significance the port has for the city and the region,” says Henrik Thykjær.
A day of insight – and a celebration to finish
Aaben Havn was first held in 2023 – with great success.
Throughout the day, there will be activities for both children and adults. At the business exhibition, visitors can meet the companies and partners at the port and gain insight into the activities and jobs that drive a modern commercial port.
Only towards the end of the day does the music take centre stage.
“The music is the companies’ gift to the citizens of Aabenraa. We are an active commercial port, which inevitably creates noise on a daily basis. That will probably also be the case this evening, but with a strong music programme, the companies want to say thank you to the city and round off a day of insight and experiences in a positive way,” says Henrik Thykjær.
Aaben Havn is organised in collaboration with the companies at the port and local partners – including Aabenraa Live, which contributes to the music programme.
