Christmas in Sweden blends tasty fika with cozy lights and heartfelt rituals. During December, Swedish cafés fill with saffron buns, gingerbread, and hot glögg as friends slow down for a sweet break together. Although the official public holidays are December 25 and December 26, Christmas Eve on December 24 is the main family celebration, but it is not an official public holiday. However, many workplaces close by custom.
During this festive season, the streets and squares glow with spectacular light trails, while markets tempt visitors with crafts and treats. As you plan your trip to Sweden during Christmas, you will find unique customs, flavorful food, and beautiful places to explore. Intrigued? Then read on to discover how to enjoy Christmas in Sweden like a local!
Key Takeaways
- Christmas in Sweden peaks on December 24 with family dinners, unique traditions, and Santa Claus.
- Official public holidays are December 25 and December 26, while December 24 is widely observed but not official.
- Fika shapes December with saffron buns, gingerbread, and warm glögg shared with friends.
- Light trails and giant trees create magical photo spots across central areas in Stockholm.
- Classic dishes include pickled herring, gravlax, ham, rice porridge, and Lucia saffron buns.
Historical Background of Christmas in Sweden
Swedish Christmas, known as jul, grew from Nordic midwinter feasts that honored light and hope. Over time, Christian observance blended with farming life, household crafts, and winter gatherings. The season begins in Advent and often continues to January 13 with St. Knut’s Day. Families light candles, decorate windows with stars, and plan the festive table called julbord.
The main celebration takes place on Christmas Eve. This timing follows the older European custom of vigils that began a feast the evening before. Therefore, families exchange gifts, share dinner, and welcome Tomten on December 24. The following days became official holidays, which fixed December 25 and December 26 as public days off, while the family focus remained on Christmas Eve.
Advent and St. Lucia on December 13 add songs, candlelight, and saffron buns. Schools, churches, and concert halls host processions that honor light during the darkest month. These traditions carry history into modern city life and keep the season’s calm mood alive.
Fun Facts about Christmas in Sweden
Before we explore where to go during Christmas in Sweden, here are a few delightful quirks that set the season apart.
- St Lucia on December 13: Towns, schools, and workplaces host candlelit processions led by a Lucia in a white gown and a crown of candles. Choirs sing ancient carols while guests enjoy saffron buns and coffee. Although not entirely for Christmas, the celebration honors the return of light, and it gently ushers in the Christmas season across the country.
- 3 pm Christmas Eve TV tradition: Families pause preparations to watch the beloved Donald Duck special “From All of Us to All of You.” It has aired for decades, so generations know the songs and sketches by heart. People often serve coffee, glögg, and gingerbread during the broadcast, which sets a cozy mood before dinner and gifts.
The famous straw goat: The Gävle Goat is a giant straw Yule goat raised each Advent since 1966. Its size makes it a target for vandals, so organizers use cameras and guards, and whether it survives has become part of the fun people follow each year.
- Julmust mania: A spiced Christmas soda called julmust dominates December drink shelves. In many homes, it replaces cola during the holidays, which surprises visitors.
- The party that ends Christmas: On January 13, Swedes hold a julgransplundring. Families “plunder” the tree, eat the last sweets, sing, and finally take down decorations to close the season.
Where to Experience Christmas in Sweden
Now that you know the spirit, let’s visit the places where Christmas in Sweden truly shines!
Stockholm Waterfront Lights and Giant Christmas Tree
Start by the water to see a towering tree and glowing quays. Then wander through central streets as festive lights sweep across squares and shopping lanes. The lighting ceremony often begins in mid-November, and displays continue into January. It is a beautiful walking route for photos and peaceful evening strolls. Read more about the event here.
Gamla Stan Christmas Market
In the oldest square, rows of red booths offer handcrafted gifts, cured meats, cheeses, and cups of glögg. Stalls open daily through December with a quiet pause on Christmas Day. Visit for classic photos and arrive early on weekends for a calmer stroll among carols and cinnamon scents. Check the opening dates here.
Skansen Christmas Market
A beloved heritage park adds carols, folk dance, and craft workshops to the shopping. Taste traditional treats, meet artisans, and step into historic farmhouses dressed for winter. Programs vary by weekend, so plan extra time for concerts and demonstrations across the grounds.
Liseberg Winter Fair
A famous amusement park transforms into a winter wonderland with millions of lights and a lively market. Families enjoy seasonal rides, visits to Santa’s Village, and dazzling ice shows. Warm up with regional specialties, and linger after sunset when the atmosphere feels truly magical.
Ice Skating at Kungsträdgården
Glide under twinkling lights at a central rink near major shopping streets. Entry is free if you bring skates, and on-site rental is available. The rink usually operates through winter, weather permitting. It is a perfect stop after a market visit and a cozy fika.
Top Christmas Foods and Desserts in Sweden
- Julbord: A generous buffet with herring, gravlax, ham, sausages, beetroot salad, cheeses, and breads. Dishes arrive in cold, warm, and sweet rounds for a long, social meal.
- Lussekatter: Saffron buns in curled S shapes for Lucia on December 13. They pair perfectly with coffee during afternoon fika.
- Pepparkakor: Thin gingerbread cookies that appear in tins and at markets. People decorate them at home and enjoy them with glögg.
- Risgrynsgröt: Creamy rice porridge with cinnamon and an almond that hints at luck for the new year.
- Glögg: Spiced mulled wine served with almonds and raisins, ideal for cold evenings. Non alcoholic versions are common.
Conclusion
Christmas in Sweden brings light, music, and time together. You now know when the holidays fall, how Swedes celebrate on the 24th, and where to find the most festive streets, markets, and ice rinks. With food traditions from julbord to saffron buns, you can taste the season as you explore.
If you want an unforgettable visit, consider Amitylux’s private tour in Stockholm. You can customize the entire day around your pace, interests, and favorite holiday stops, from lights to markets to skating. In the meantime, keep the travel inspiration flowing with our guide to the top 10 unique museums of Stockholm!
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Sweden celebrate Christmas?
Families gather on December 24 for dinner, gifts, and a visit from Tomten. Advent candles, Lucia on December 13, markets, and light trails set the mood all month.
Why is Swedish Christmas on the 24th?
It follows the older tradition of beginning feasts on the evening before, which made Christmas Eve the main family celebration.
Where is the best place to celebrate Christmas in Sweden?
Choose the capital for a mix of markets, grand light displays, a giant tree by the water, and easy access to skating and concerts. A major west coast city park is another standout for families.
Is December 26 a holiday in Sweden?
Yes. December 26, Annandag jul, is an official public holiday. December 24 is widely celebrated but not an official holiday.
