By Lea Laursen Pasgaard and Sofie Astrup, AAU Communication and Public Affairs. Photos: William Brændstrup

The flags were hoisted, the sun was shining and the red carpet was rolled out at Aalborg Congress and Cultural Center (AKKC) on Friday 30 May. Approximately 1,900 students and staff from Aalborg University (AAU) gathered for the annual University Party, which on the occasion of the university's 50th anniversary was both larger, longer and filled with more glitter than usual.

From the stage, Rector Per Michael Johansen welcomed a hall filled with festively dressed participants, who were distributed at long tables in the large hall, which was decorated with lights and balloons for the occasion.

"This year is special. The university turns 50 years old. And the university has grown strong and significant over the course of its 50 years. We all have a lot to celebrate and party for. Therefore, I would like to convey that we together shout out a loud hurray for Aalborg University. Long live Aalborg University," said the Rector after which students and staff shouted: Hooray. Hooray, Hooray!

After dinner, the band The Heat kicked off the dance floor, and this year the evening offered concerts from two different stages – with Jada, Zar Paulo and Kato, among others. In the foyer and in the corridors, the tables were well into conversation, and the two photobooth carts were popular with many participants, who took home a good old-fashioned photo as a reminder of a bang of a 50th birthday.

AAU Update was at the party and has spoken to a handful of participants about why they chose to spend a Friday evening on a 50th birthday.

What are you looking most forward to at the anniversary party tonight?

Tina: I've only been here for five months, so it's completely new for me to be part of such a party – and such an anniversary not least. I hear it's an annual event, but I don't know what to expect.

Mads: I'm looking forward to having fun with everyone from the university who has been invited – it's usually very joyful.  

Ruth: To have fun with my colleagues and to meet up with the people I know.  

Jonathan: To dance and party.  

This year's University Celebration is also a celebration of the university's 50th anniversary. What is your relation to AAU, and what is the university to you?

Tina: It's my workplace, and it's a way to get to know both colleagues and some of the students. I see them daily in the hallway.  

Mads: For me personally, AAU has been a big part of my life. I moved to the city in 1997 to study here, and I have been employed here ever since. A huge part of my life is at the university – and Aalborg too! The university means a lot to Aalborg and the city's transformation from being an old industrial city to becoming a modern city of knowledge. So yes, it's a big part of my life.  

Ruth: I was there for the 40th anniversary in the House of Music, where – at the time – Crown Prince Frederik attended as well. I've only been here for 10-11 years, and I think we, as a university, has become much more visionary, and I think a lot of good things has happened in many ways. Also in the research area.  

Jonathan: I am very proud to be part of the organization and to develop research in engineering and science. 

See more pictures from the party below: