Climate City Middelfart
One of Denmark's largest climate adaptation projects. Rainwater is managed at the surface to relieve the sewage system and strengthen the town's green spaces. The project was created in collaboration with Realdania and Middelfart Spildevand. Every August, Klimafolkemødet puts climate at th
Perhaps Denmark's most beautiful climate adaptation
In the old town, rainwater runs through the city – down the middle rather than the sides. This isn't just climate protection; it's a new way of thinking about urban space: rainwater as an asset. It creates green spaces and lushness. And when it rains heavily, the water is channelled into Lillebælt without damaging the old buildings.
The Climate City covers an area of 450,000 square metres in the western part of Middelfart. The project was developed in collaboration between Middelfart Municipality, Middelfart Spildevand and Realdania and was completed in 2019. Rainwater is managed at the surface via channels, waterways and rain gardens – depressions in the terrain that collect and absorb water locally – relieving the sewage system. In Pigekvarteret and Allékvarteret, everyday rain soaks into beds along the roads, while the Activity Forest collects and slows the water before it flows into Lillebælt. Nature and city in one.
Every August, thousands gather for Klimafolkemødet in the heart of Middelfart. Three days of debates, workshops and concerts focused on climate. In 2024, 40,000 people attended the free event at KulturØpladsen by the harbour. Klimafolkemødet 2026 takes place 27–29 August.
Klimafolkemødet in Middelfart is an annual event that puts climate at the top of the agenda for three days in early September.
The Climate City of Middelfart is perhaps Denmark's most beautiful climate adaptation. Walk the 3 km Climate Route and see how rainwater is managed in the streets.
What is the Climate Route in Middelfart?
The Climate Route is a 3 km walk that takes you through the four areas of the Climate City – from Pigekvarteret and Allékvarteret to Bykvarteret and Gl. Havn. Along the way you see how rainwater is managed at the surface in channels, rain gardens and the Activity Forest. The route is free and open all year.
When does Klimafolkemødet take place in Middelfart?
Klimafolkemødet takes place every year in August at KulturØpladsen by the harbour in Middelfart. Attendance is free and no registration is required. In 2024, 40,000 people attended over three days with more than 400 programme points. Klimafolkemødet 2026 takes place 27–29 August.
Are there climate activities for children?
Yes – the Activity Forest is particularly well suited for families with children. There are clearings, bridges and nature play, and the forest is also used for school visits. The Climate Route is flat and easy to walk, and along the way there's plenty to see and explain about how water and the city connect.
