Welcome to Horsens – Host City of the BWF Thomas & Uber Cup Finals 2026 

Located on the east coast of Jutland, Horsens is a city defined by transformation. With deep historical roots, a vibrant cultural scene, and easy access to nature, Horsens offers visitors an authentic and contemporary Danish experience – grounded in heritage, yet confidently forward-lookingg.

A City Shaped by History and Renewal

Horsens traces its origins back to the Middle Ages, when it developed as a fortified market town and important trading centre. Over the centuries, the city became known for its strong industrial base, shaping both its architecture and identity. Today, this heritage is carefully preserved and interpreted through museums and cultural institutions that tell the story of craftsmanship, labour, and urban growth.

One of Horsens’ most distinctive landmarks is FÆNGSLET, a former state prison transformed into a world-class cultural and event venue. Once a symbol of confinement, it now represents openness, creativity, and renewal – housing exhibitions, museums, concerts, and international events.

A Championship Beyond the Arena

From 24 April to 3 May, the BWF Thomas & Uber Cup Finals will be celebrated throughout Horsens – not only inside Forum Horsens where the matches take place, but across the city as well. During the championship, visitors can experience a festive city programme that brings the tournament atmosphere into Horsens city centre. The official city programme includes an opening party on 24 April, badminton activities, a World Championships lounge, Late Night shopping on 1 May, and a final party in the city centre on 3 May featuring Motor Mille’s dance show – a well-known children’s entertainer in Denmark.

This creates an experience that extends beyond the competition venue and invites visitors to explore the city while enjoying the atmosphere of one of badminton’s biggest events.

Culture, Events, and Urban Energy

Horsens is widely recognised as one of Denmark’s leading event cities. It regularly hosts major international concerts, festivals, and large-scale cultural experiences that attract visitors from across the region and beyond. During the Thomas & Uber Cup Finals, that energy will be especially visible throughout the city.

Around Torvet, Søndergade, Bytorv Horsens and the surrounding pedestrian streets in Horsens city centre, visitors will find shops, cafés, public spaces and tournament activities that make Horsens feel lively throughout the championship week. The city centre is compact and walkable, making it easy to explore cultural attractions, dining, and shopping alongside the matches.

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Food and Local Experiences

Horsens also offers a varied dining scene, with restaurants, cafés and other eating places throughout the city centre. Whether you are into modern, classic cuisine or something third, there are options for everyone. The area around Torvet, Søndergade and Bytorv Horsens in the city centre has a lot of convenient options and is a great place to explore the city’s food scene and enjoy the local and welcoming atmosphere during the World Championships.

Find restaurants and cafes in Horsens

Nature Close to the City

Nature is an integral part of life in Horsens. The city is surrounded by gently rolling landscapes, forests, and the scenic Horsens Fjord. Visitors can enjoy coastal walks, cycling routes, kayaking, and quiet viewpoints – all just minutes from the city centre. This seamless connection between urban life and nature is a defining feature of Horsens and a key reason it appeals to both visitors and residents.

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A Modern Danish City

Today, Horsens is a growing, forward-thinking city with a strong focus on education, sustainability, and urban development. The revitalised harbour area reflects this ambition, combining modern architecture with public spaces designed for community life. A diverse and international population adds to the city’s openness and contemporary character.

As host city of the BWF Thomas & Uber Cup Finals 2026, Horsens invites visitors to experience more than world-class badminton. It is a chance to discover a city where history is not only preserved but reimagined, where culture thrives, and where nature and urban living exist in perfect balance. Whether visiting for leisure, culture, or inspiration, Horsens offers a meaningful and memorable destination.