About DGI Byen

About DGI Byen

DGI Byen is a vibrant meeting place in the heart of Copenhagen, where sports, culture and business come together. Each year, over one million people visit our facilities – from swimming pool and sports halls to conferences, fairs and cultural experiences.

DGI Byen was founded as an independent institution in 1995 through a partnership between DGI, De Danske Skytteforeninger and the City of Copenhagen. In 1997, we opened our doors to the citizens and associations of the city, with the ambition to strengthen community, public health and participation by offering broad access to sports and culture.

Today, DGI Byen houses some of the city’s largest sports facilities: four halls – two of which have spectator seating – a modern shooting center, fitness, and a swimming pool with five pools. More than 700,000 guests use our sports and leisure amenities annually, and around half of them visit Vandkulturhuset. The City of Copenhagen also regularly uses the facilities on behalf of around 100 local associations, schools and institutions.

Beyond sports, DGI Byen is also a central player in the conference and cultural scene. Each year we host more than 1,600 private and public events – from company parties and trade fairs to public events. As the venue manager of Øksnehallen and Building 55, we also facilitate over 20 major cultural events annually, in collaboration with our cultural partners. Among these are the Fotografisk Center, which is based in Building 55 and presents changing exhibitions year-round.

Our Purpose

At DGI Byen, we work to promote physical, mental and social wellbeing through movement and community.

We create spaces where people meet – for sports, culture, conferences and social activities – and we believe that the greatest change happens in community. Our facilities and activities inspire people to get involved, get moving and come together – regardless of background, age or purpose.

As a business client at DGI Byen, you become more than just a guest – you help make a difference. Surplus from conferences, fairs and business events helps finance and develop activity offers for children, young people and the local community in Copenhagen. In this way, all our partnerships help to strengthen public health and create social value.

This circular model is a key part of our social purpose – and a way for companies to actively contribute to their ESG goals through partnership and use of DGI Byen’s facilities.

Together with our guests and partners, we work for a healthier and stronger Copenhagen. DGI Byen exists to make a difference – and we are always on the move.