Values

Distortion is apolitical and free from political interests. We neither fight for nor against specific political beliefs. We do the opposite. We seek to break down boundaries and remove barriers in the urban landscape as well as between people. We celebrate humanity and the unique Danish sense of openness and freedom.

If you were to describe Distortion in a few words, inclusion would be one of the most important. At Distortion, no one is excluded. All types of festival guests are welcome, and all kinds of organizers can host their own street party. This is an essential part of the festival and one of its greatest strengths. The more we are, and the more diverse we are, the better.

Distortion, which is a tumultuous festival experience, can only function because we all take care of each other, show consideration, embrace each other’s differences, and act as a community. In this way, Distortion achieves a balanced chaos that is not destructive, but instead creates a feeling in all of us that we are part of something bigger—something we also share responsibility for. This feeling becomes even more important as the festival grows. It is something we have continuously tried to strengthen, for example through the Street Wristband, where guests voluntarily choose to support cleanup and maintenance.

We are grateful for the responsible sense of community that emerges, and we know how important it is for the festival’s existence. Therefore, a thank you to participants and organizers, who each year create our shared festival.

Code of Conduct

Respect all guests

Distortion works to create an open and welcoming community for music and experiences in the urban space of Copenhagen - where everyone can feel welcome. As a festival guest, you play an active role in creating a pleasant and inclusive environment.

All forms of discrimination are against Distortion’s values, including but not limited to: race, skin color, sexual orientation, age, religion, disability status, or political orientation.

Unacceptable behavior includes, but is not limited to: physical assault, sexual assault, groping or unwanted sexual remarks, stalking, humiliation, threats, or threatening body language.

If you witness people behaving in violation of this, you are encouraged to immediately contact our staff or the police.

Respect our neighbors

Residents of Nørrebro, Vesterbro, and the Inner City have, since the year 2000, been kind enough to welcome Distortion into their neighborhoods. We must return this kindness by showing consideration for our neighbors. You must not be unnecessarily noisy or urinate on buildings, gateways, basement stairwells, or similar places.

As a festival guest, you should help us maintain a good and long-lasting relationship with our neighbors. You do this by following the rules and by taking an active role in spreading the message to your friends and fellow festival guests.

Violations of the law, such as vandalism and urinating on residential buildings, have no place at Distortion. If you witness such behavior, you are encouraged to immediately contact our staff or the police.