The people of Denmark love their queen. They also love a good reason to celebrate. It was Queen Margrethe II's birthday today and thousands of Danish citizens and visitors gathered in the square outside Frederiks castle. Not wanting to miss out, I hopped on the bicycle Ian designated as 'mine' for the duration of my stay. I mistakingly ditched the bike a little early and ended up needing to walk much farther than I anticipated. I arrived just in time for the royal family to make their appearance. The crowd erupted as the doors to the balcony were thrown open. The Queen appeared first, followed by her husband and then the rest of the royal family. After about ten minutes of waving (including an encore) the show was over and I made my escape from the courtyard. 
I headed back towards Strøget, the main shopping street, thinking I would kill some exploring the city. As it turns out the show wasn't actually over, it was just beginning. The festivities continued in full effect as the crowd lined the streets from the castle to the restaurant where the royal family dined for a birthday luncheon. The procession was led by the royal calvary followed by the royal family in a horse drawn carriage. I'm sure the queen had a lovely birthday lunch.
From downtown I headed southeast to Christiana, a small self-governed hippy-esque commune within the city limits of Copenhagen. I ended up missing a turn and didnt realize that Christiana is contained within a fenced off area, so I moved on without realizing I hadnt really seen the uber-liberal commune (although some of the spirit of the neighborhood was definitely apparently in the surrounding area).
Seeing as it was a windy day I ventured off the map and towards the beach park at Amager. It took some crafty navigating but I finally found the spot. It turns out there is a kite surfing shop right there on the man made island of Amager strudepark. To my dismay they do not rent gear, but I may have to take lessons just to get some kiting in while staying in this wonderously windy city.
Well I suppose that about sums up my day. Many more to come.
Rob
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