How do they celebrate Christmas in Sweden?
Posted on Dec 22, 2025 / Society
In Sweden, Christmas is a blend of deep traditions, seasonal lights and community festivities that start well before December 25. A highlight of the season is **Saint Lucia’s Day** on December 13, when girls in white gowns carry candles and sing in processions to bring light into dark winter days. Homes and Christmas markets brim with decorations, candlelight and festive treats such as glögg (mulled wine) and pepparkakor (gingerbread). Families often enjoy a **Christmas Eve dinner (Julafton)** with dishes like julskinka (Christmas ham), meatballs and rice pudding. The gift‑giver is known as the *Jultomte*, a gnome‑like figure who blends folklore with modern Santa traditions. After Christmas, many Swedes observe **St. Knut’s Day on January 13**, dancing around the tree and “throwing out Christmas” to mark the end of the season. Medieval towns like Stockholm also come alive with markets, lights and ice skating in December. Swedish Christmas reflects a mix of religious celebration, folklore and winter cheer.
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