About DGI Byen

About DGI Byen

DGI Byen is a vibrant gathering place in the heart of Copenhagen, where sports, culture, and business meet. Every year, over one million people visit our facilities – from swimming pools and sports halls to conferences, fairs, and cultural experiences.

DGI Byen was established as a self-governing institution in 1995 through a collaboration between DGI, De Danske Skytteforeninger, and the City of Copenhagen. In 1997, we opened our doors to the city’s residents and associations, with the ambition to strengthen community, public health, and participation through broad access to sports and culture.

Today, DGI Byen offers some of the city’s largest sports facilities: four halls – two of which have spectator seating – a modern shooting center, fitness facilities, and a swimming pool complex with five pools. Each year, over 700,000 guests use our sports and leisure facilities, and about half of them visit the Water Culture House. The City of Copenhagen also regularly uses our facilities on behalf of around 100 local associations, schools, and institutions.

Beyond sports, DGI Byen is also a major player in the conference and cultural scene. Each year, we host over 1,600 private and public events – from company parties and trade fairs to audience events. As the operator of Øksnehallen and Bygning 55, we also facilitate over 20 major cultural events annually, in collaboration with our cultural partners. Among them is the Fotografisk Center, based in Bygning 55, which presents changing exhibitions throughout the year.

Our purpose

At DGI Byen, we strive to promote physical, mental, and social health through movement and community.

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

As a business client at DGI Byen, you’re more than just a guest – you help make a difference. Profits from conferences, fairs, and business events help fund and develop activity offers for children, young people, and the local community in Copenhagen. In this way, all our collaborations contribute to strengthening public health and creating social value.

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

Together with our guests and partners, we are working for a healthier and stronger Copenhagen. DGI Byen exists to make a difference – and we are always in motion.