Swedish traditions

13 December, Scandinavia Christmas, Lucia Day.

The Scandinavian Christmas tradition: Santa Lucia Explained

The Scandinavian Christmas tradition that somehow touches me the most every year is ‘Santa Lucia,’ or ‘Saint Lucy’s day,’ which is today, December 13. Photo: Cecilia Larsson Lantz/ Imagebank.sweden.se On this day you will find processions in schools, churches, nursing homes, etc. of girls (boys as well), dressed in long gowns, walking with candles  in […]

The Scandinavian Christmas tradition: Santa Lucia Explained Read More »

Walpurgis night

Why the Swedes greet spring with fire on the night of Walpurgis In Sweden and Finland, “Walpurgis Night” is celebrated on the last day of April. The day also happens to be the Swedish king’s birthday. As such, it’s a flag day in Sweden, meaning you will see the Swedish flag swaying above all public

Walpurgis night Read More »

Easter table setting in Scandinavian home

Easter in Sweden

Easter is the first extended weekend of the spring, and for many Swedish families this means the first trip out to their holiday cottage, which has been locked and deserted all winter. There are window shutters to be opened and stuffy rooms to be aired. The woodstoves are lit, and the smoke fills the kitchen.

Easter in Sweden Read More »