This is a string or garland of Danish flags, called danneborg (dan-a-bro, which translates to Danish cloth) Traditionally these are made of paper and are the last decoration to be placed on the Christmas tree. The use of flag garlands began about 1848 during the 1st Schlesvig war when they were placed on the tree to show national identity. During the Christmas season strings of flags for purchase are in almost every shop and store in Denmark, but not so much in the US. Lucky for us, we found these wooden ones in Copenhagen that can be used year after year. In keeping with tradition they are the last thing we put on our tree.

Legend has it that the first Danish flag was a gift from heaven in the late 1200’s. It became the official flag in 1854, though at the time could only be flown by royalty. The “swallowtail” design (like the ones pictured) were initially used on naval vessels and merchant ships. The Danish flag design of a white cross on a red backdrop has remained unchanged since its introduction. It is one of the oldest flags in the world.