Ship Festival – maritime tradition on South Langeland

A living custom with historical roots

The Ship Festival is a very special event that takes place every seven years in Bagenkop and Magleby. Here, the church ships from the two churches are taken down and restored – a task that concludes with an atmospheric procession. Young fishermen dressed in sailor suits carry the newly restored ships through the streets from Bagenkop to Magleby, where they are returned to their places in the churches.

In 2026, the Skibefesten will take place on Saturday 25 April, starting at 11.00 am in front of Bagenkop Hallen, Stationsvej 6A, 5935 Bagenkop.

A tradition since 1915

The Ship Festival has been part of South Langeland's cultural heritage since 1915. It is not an ordinary town festival, but a ceremonial celebration with deep roots in local fishing and church life. The procession is open to everyone, and both locals and visitors are invited to take part in the festivities and the parade through Bagenkop town to the church in Bagenkop and then on to Magleby Church.

At 11:00, the procession sets off from Bagenkop Hall. Along the way, there will be stops at Bagenkop Kro, Brugsen, Rum Lake, Den Gamle Købmand, Fiski, Fiskeriets Hus, Lars H and Havneblik. At 13:45, the procession arrives at Bagenkop Church, where the church ship will be hoisted.

At 14:05, the procession will continue towards Magleby, stopping along the way at Musikværkstedet, Ulla and Knud Keramik, Søndenbro Gl. Branddam, Broløkke, Magleby Efterskole and Magleby Præstegård. Arrival at Magleby Church at 16:30.

Community and conclusion in Bagenkop Hall

After the procession, the Ship Festival concludes with a festive dinner in Bagenkop Hall. Everyone is welcome, and the atmosphere is characterised by community and local pride. It is an obvious opportunity to get closer to Langeland's traditions – and each other.

Read more on the Facebook event page Ship Festival in Bagenkop