Kaffemik – A Greenlandic Tradition of Celebration

Kaffemik is more than just a gathering—it’s a cherished Greenlandic tradition that embodies warmth, community, and hospitality. Friends, family, and neighbors are welcomed into a home to celebrate special occasions such as birthdays, confirmations, weddings, or cultural milestones.

What to Expect at a Kaffemik?

A kaffemik is an open-house event, meaning guests come and go throughout the day. Unlike formal gatherings, the atmosphere is relaxed and festive, filled with conversations and connections.

The host prepares an array of homemade treats, often including cakes, pastries, and traditional Greenlandic specialties such as dried fish, mattak (whale skin with blubber), reindeer, or seal meat, depending on the occasion. Every family has its own way of hosting a kaffemik, but one thing remains constant—there is always plenty of coffee! The name kaffemik comes from the Danish word kaffe (coffee), but in Greenlandic, the tradition is understood through two words:

• Qaasaaneq – inviting people
• Kaffellerneq – serving coffee

Book your kaffemik

For visitors to Greenland, being invited to a kaffemik is a special experience—a chance to step into local homes, witness authentic traditions, and feel the deep sense of community that defines Greenlandic culture. Book your kaffemik in advance to ensure this unique opportunity. It’s an unforgettable way to experience everyday life and Greenlandic culture up close.