Kaffemik is a deeply rooted Greenlandic tradition, celebrated on life’s big occasions – or simply as a way to spend time together. It’s an open house where guests come and go throughout the day, enjoying coffee, homemade cakes, local delicacies, and warm company. If you travel to West or East Greenland with us, you’ll have the chance to experience this heartfelt expression of hospitality at the heart of everyday life.
While people in other parts of the world might go out to celebrate, Greenlanders prefer to keep the festivities close to home.
Kaffemik is a deeply rooted Greenlandic tradition held on life’s big occasions – birthdays, christenings, confirmations, and other milestones – or simply as a way to spend time together. The word comes from Greenlandic and roughly translates to “via coffee.”
A kaffemik is often prepared over several days, with hosts going the extra mile using fine china and decorative tablecloths. When the big day arrives, the home turns into a steady stream of celebration – with old friends, out-of-town relatives, colleagues, and brand-new acquaintances coming and going throughout the day.
The spread at a kaffemik ranges from homemade cakes and sweets like crowberry muffins, apple tarts, and marzipan cookies to items like meat, dried fish, and lumpfish roe blinis. Soft drinks and carafes of angelica-infused water are often served – and of course, a freshly brewed pot of coffee is always ready, just as tradition demands.
As a traveller, a kaffemik is less about celebration and more about gaining a unique insight into everyday life in Greenland. You step straight into the homes of locals and get a sense of what it’s like to live as a Greenlander.
On our journeys from Disko Bay to Uummannaq, and in East Greenland and the wild beauty of Sermilik, you’ll have the opportunity to take part in this warm and welcoming tradition.
Source: Visit Greenland
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© Magnus B Trolle – Visit Greenland -
© Magnus B Trolle – Visit Greenland -
© Mad -
© Peter Lindstrom – Visit Greenland