In the late 19th century, three key figures of the Scandinavian art scene — Oscar Gustaf Björck, Christian Krohg and P.S. Krøyer — helped shape a vision of life that remains deeply connected to the way we celebrate today.

These artists were part of a close-knit community known as the Skagen painters, many of them influenced by the French impressionist movement during their studies in France. They are believed to have been among the first to introduce the concept of champagne to Scandinavia, bringing with them not only new artistic techniques but also a culture of elegance and celebration.

They were more than painters; they were visionaries who captured not only moments on canvas, but the essence of joy, connection and what would become our deeply rooted culture of celebrating life.

Krøyer, Björck and Krohg didn’t just paint scenes of camaraderie; they shaped a new way of living in which art, life, celebration and culture were all intertwined. As these painters gathered for relaxed lunches, picnics and festive dinners, they cemented the idea that good company and good wine — often champagne — were an integral part of celebrating the Scandinavian way of life.

Art historian Elisabeth Fabritius (wikipedia) has often noted that Krøyer in particular was most influential in making Skagen a symbol of "sun and summer fun, festivity and youth, happiness and the idyll of sunlit summer nights." It’s easy to imagine that their gatherings, often by the seaside or in the comfort of lush gardens, would include a bottle or two of champagne to elevate the spirit of togetherness.

Champagne has become a symbol of celebration and enjoyment, an integral part of the Scandinavian spirit of seizing the moment and enjoying shared experiences. From formal gatherings to intimate picnics, the act of toasting with champagne is now deeply ingrained in the way we mark special occasions and simply celebrate life.

We see echoes of Hip Hip Hurra! in our modern picnics, garden parties and relaxed hygge moments. Just like the artists of the late 19th century, we gather with friends, family and communities, often outdoors, surrounded by nature, champagne glasses raised to toast the beauty of being together. Whether celebrating a milestone, a simple get-together or the arrival of summer, the essence of celebration — rooted in the traditions set in motion by Krøyer, Björck and Krohg — lives on.