Without a doubt, Swedish Christmas is one of the cosiest and most magical celebrations in Europe. Sweden is all about ambience, getting together with family and making memories during the darkest days of the year. One of the most iconic December traditions is the celebration of St. Lucia, but there are many other unique customs that make Sweden around Christmas so special. In this blog post, we talk you through them!
Lucia - The celebration of light
The tradition of St. Lucia, celebrated on the 13th of December, is perhaps the most special moment of Swedish holidays. The celebration revolves around symbolising light in the darkness, which of course fits perfectly with Sweden's long, dark winter season. The story? Lucia brought food to Christians in hiding during the Christian persecutions, carrying candles on her head to keep her hands free. During Lucia, which is celebrated throughout Sweden, a procession is held with girls in white robes and boys as ‘St Lucia's youths’, carrying candles and singing traditional carols, while enjoying saffron buns (Lussekatter) and glögg (hot, mulled wine).
Lucia celebrations are held in many cities and towns, and the most beautiful parades are often found in Stockholm and Gothenburg. So are you considering travelling to Sweden next Christmas? Then don't miss out on a Luciacelebration!
Julbord - The Swedish Christmas dinner
When it comes to Christmas dishes, Sweden has one of the most elaborate and delicious traditions: the julbord. This is an elaborate Christmas buffet served during the holidays (often starting in the end of november). The julbord consists of various dishes, including herring, salmon, meatballs (köttbullar), Christmas ham and a variety of breads and cheeses. There are also typical Christmas sweets, such as the famous pepparkakor (gingerbread cookies) and knäck (crispy caramel).
Julmust - A Christmas drink
Another unmistakable part of Swedish Christmas is Julmust, a special Christmas soft drink that is only consumed during the festive season. This dark, spicy drink has a unique flavour that many Swedes consider an essential part of the Christmas table. From late October, supermarkets fill up with huge towers of Julmust bottles. We would describe it as a mixture of cola with cloves, citrus and other spices.
Julmust is so popular in Sweden that it surpasses the sales of regular soft drinks, such as cola, during the Christmas period. It is often served cold and is thus not comparable to mulled wine. The history of Julmust dates back to the early 20th century, when it was created as an alcohol-free version of beer for children. Today, it is an unmistakable symbol of Christmas in Sweden.
Christmas in a Swedish home
Decoration, of course, cannot be missing from a blog about Sweden. People decorate their homes, like many other countries, with candles, Christmas trees, and lights, but one of the most traditional decorations here is the ‘Stjärna’ (star). These stars are often hung on windows to illuminate houses from outside.
Additionally, the ‘Adventljusstake’ is a traditional Swedish candlestick with four candles, one for each Sunday of Advent. A fifth candle is often added for Christmas Eve. This candlestick is placed in the windows and symbolises the light breaking through the dark winter months. It is a beloved tradition that provides warmth and cosiness both indoors and outdoors. At some buildings it is even obligatory to have one in your window!
A Christmas in Sweden is an experience you won't forget easily. Whether it is the magical Lucia procession, the elaborate Julbord, or just the atmosphere of a Swedish Christmas market, you will find that Sweden is a country where Christmas is celebrated with heart and soul. So, if you're looking for a magical Christmas holiday, definitely consider visiting Sweden. It is the perfect place to spend the holidays in a unique and enchanting atmosphere! We will help you to book an amazing December experience in Sweden.
