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Can festivals and events in Denmark refuse to take cash?

Cashless festivals and the four conditions

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Short answer

Yes, if four conditions are all met. As of November 2026, sellers at a festival, town festival or similar event need not take cash when the event lasts no more than 14 days, takes place at most once a year, is held in a fenced area with access control, and the organiser clearly told guests before they signed up that cash is not accepted. If there is no sign-up, the warning must be in the marketing. Events that do not meet these conditions can apply to Finanstilsynet for an exemption.

Practical info

Why

  1. Cashless sales are faster at busy bars and food stalls.
  2. The exception was written into section 81 of the Payments Act.
  3. Guests must be told in advance so they can plan how to pay.

Details

Finanstilsynet has granted exemptions to events such as Copenhell, Smukfest, Heartland Festival and Aarhus Festuge 2022.

Tip

Read the ticket terms before you go, and load a card or phone wallet if the event is cashless.

What may differ

An exemption usually takes about 60 days to process and is given only for short, once-a-year events in a limited area.

Common misconception

Every market or open street party may refuse cash because it is an event.

What actually happens

Without access control and advance notice the normal cash rule applies, unless Finanstilsynet has granted an exemption.

People also ask

  • Do shops in Denmark have to accept cash?
  • Can shops in Denmark refuse cash at night?
  • Is Denmark a cashless country?

Sources

This answer is for reference only. Payment rules, limits and fees change, so check the official sources or your bank before you pay.

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