Kaffemik

A look into a Greenlandic home

A 'kaffemik' is actually a Danish word for a Greenlandic social gathering around a cup of coffee. Although Greenlanders are particularly keen coffee-drinkers, it is not the coffee itself that is the centre of attention, but instead the chance to get together and exchange news and indulge in small-talk about everything under the sun.

A 'coffee-mik' in Kullorsuaq

At a Greenlandic kaffemik coffee is of course served, as well as tea and homemade cakes, and it is the perfect way to meet a Greenlandic family.

There is always an excuse for a kaffemik, but in particular children's birthdays, confirmations, weddings and other special occasions are celebrated. Other more culturally determined red letter days are also celebrated, such as when a child has caught his first seal or reindeer, and in these cases the kaffemik will be a particularly memorable occasion.

Kaffemik via a tourist office
If you are invited to a kaffemik in Greenland, you can safely accept without hesitation - and it is not inconceivable that this will happen, since hospitality in Greenland is the foundation for every home. Just remember to take off your shoes and keep an eye on the rotation by which guests come and go. There are often a lot of guests and it is important that there is enough coffee and cake for everyone...

In many of the larger towns, it is also possible to simply book a kaffemik via the local tourist office, which has contacts with local hosts who, in addition to providing coffee and cake, will be happy to talk about their daily lives and life in Greenland in general.