It's not long now until the autumn color palette paints the landscape in shades of red, orange and yellow. For the golden leaves of the trees to fall in a silent waltz to the ground and form a colorful carpet in the forests - and for the evening light to slowly fade in favor of more cozy twilight hours and evening moments.
When the atmospheric fall season arrives, we know that Thanksgiving Eve on November 10th is approaching. Thanksgiving Eve is a night of fun, where year after year we gather with family, friends and loved ones around a delicious, juicy goose or duck and flavorful side dishes. And this year, you and your loved ones have an extraordinary opportunity to spend this evening in a glamorous setting at Bernstorff Castle, where we exclusively open the doors for an unforgettable culinary journey - outside regular opening hours.
But why should you celebrate Thanksgiving at the castle? And who is this "Morten" that we celebrate every year?
Poultry is on the table for Thanksgiving - but why?
The story behind Thanksgiving
Year after year, you may have sat down with your family to enjoy a delicious goose or duck on Thanksgiving Eve. But have you ever stopped to think about who "Morten" really is and why poultry has become the centerpiece of this cozy tradition? Let's take a closer look at the history behind this cozy evening of family - and fun.
In fact, this "Morten" was actually named Martin. Martin was the bishop of the French city of Tours. The story of Martin goes back to the 300s in the Roman Empire, where Martin joined the Roman army at the age of 15, where he quickly became known as a warm soul and a good person. Martin ended up in the French city of Amiens, where one day he rode past a poor man sitting on the roadside begging. As the other knights hurried past, Martin stopped and pulled out his sword and cloak. Martin cut the cloak in half and gave one half to the poor beggar to keep him warm.
That night, Jesus appeared in Martin's dream wearing half a cloak. Jesus told him that he was the poor beggar on the roadside. Now the rumors about the kind-hearted Martin spread throughout the country. Martin gained such a good reputation that the people demanded that he become a bishop. But Martin didn't want to be bishop, so when the townspeople came to appoint him as bishop, Martin hid in a goose path. But the geese didn't like this visit, so they clucked loudly and revealed Martin, who thus became Bishop Martin of Tours.
In revenge, Martin decided that everyone should slaughter at least one goose and enjoy it for dinner on the night of his unveiling - November 10. And so began the tradition of eating poultry on Thanksgiving Eve as we know it today.
Spend Thanksgiving with your loved ones at Bernstorff Castle
Thanksgiving is a traditional evening that celebrates history and tasty traditions. But why not let Bernstorff Castle host the event and take care of the planning and cooking?
We will spoil you with a menu that will make your taste buds sing and surroundings that will put the icing on the cake on your Thanksgiving Eve. We welcome you to a Thanksgiving Eve filled with hygge and gastronomic delights. Our talented chefs have put together an enchanting menu that includes succulent Mortensand, delicate side dishes and a delicious dessert that perfectly matches the seasonal atmosphere. We also offer a vegetarian version of the menu so everyone can enjoy this wonderful evening.
There is light in the darkness - because on November 10, it's Thanksgiving Eve at Bernstorff Castle
Menus
Starter: Citrus marinated salmon or carrots on smoked cheese cream, horseradish, celeriac and herbs
We start the evening with a starter that tantalizes the taste buds and opens up the culinary journey. The citrus marinated salmon topped with smoked cheese cream and fresh herbs is a taste experience out of the ordinary.
Main course: Duck breast and duck leg croquettes or walnut pâté for the vegetarians in your party, potato puree, brown potatoes, compote of prunes, apples and onions
The main course is the heart of Thanksgiving, and our duck breast is tender, juicy and full of flavor. The crispy croquettes of duck leg perfectly complement the potato puree and the sweet compote of prunes, apples and onions. For vegetarians, a deep and delicate walnut pâté is served.
On the side: Cabbage salad with roasted seeds and cranberries
A crisp and fresh cabbage salad with roasted seeds and sweet cranberries gives the dish a fresh touch of crunch and sweetness.
Dessert: Apple compote with vanilla cream and crispy oat crumble
The evening is rounded off with the dessert consisting of an apple compote with silky vanilla cream and crispy oat crumble.
- Price per person: DKK 595,-
- Children under 12 years: DKK 495,-
- Children under 3 years are free
- Time: 12:00 - 16:00
Reserve your seats at the Castle well in advance
The historic elegance and charm of Bernstorff Castle is the perfect backdrop for your Thanksgiving Eve. Here you'll experience a warm and cozy atmosphere where wonderful conversations and intimacy are in focus. Reserve your seats now, so you can be sure to create an unforgettable evening. We've taken care of everything, so all you have to do is sit back and enjoy the meal.
Reserve your plates by calling us on 39 63 10 80 - or send an email to reception@bernstorffslot.dk.
On November 10, we set the table for Thanksgiving in a historic setting at Bernstorff Castle
