Language/Swedish/Culture/Swedish-customs

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Swedish Culture → Swedish Culture → Swedish customs

Swedish customs are an integral part of the culture and identity of Sweden. Understanding these customs will help you to better appreciate the culture of this amazing country. In this lesson, we'll take a closer look at some of the most important Swedish customs that date back hundreds of years.

Once you've mastered this lesson, take a look at these related pages: Swedish holidays & Eating Habits and Food Prices in Sweden.

National Day of Sweden

Every year, on June 6th, the Swedes celebrate their National Day. This day is special because it commemorates two important events in Swedish history. In 1523, Gustav Vasa was crowned King of Sweden, and in 1809, Sweden adopted a new constitution. To celebrate this day, there are parades, music performances, and flag-raising ceremonies all over the country.

Midsummer

One of the most popular Swedish customs is Midsummer, which is celebrated on the Friday closest to the summer solstice. This day is all about celebrating the return of the light after the long, dark winter. People gather to dance around the maypole, sing traditional songs, and eat traditional foods like pickled herring, new potatoes, and strawberries.

Lucia Day

Lucia Day is celebrated on December 13th and is a celebration of light during the darkest time of the year. On this day, a girl is chosen to portray Saint Lucia and wears a crown of candles on her head. She is followed by a procession of people holding candles and singing traditional songs. In schools and churches across Sweden, Lucia Day is eagerly anticipated and celebrated.

Crayfish Party

In August, Swedes gather together to eat crayfish, drink snaps (a kind of alcoholic drink), and sing songs. This tradition dates back to the early 20th century, when Swedes began to import crayfish from the US. Nowadays, crayfish parties are a popular way to enjoy the last days of summer and have fun with friends and family.

Sami Traditions

The Sami people are indigenous to Northern Sweden, Norway, Finland, and Russia. They have their own unique culture, language, and traditions. One of their most important traditions is the reindeer migration, which takes place in the spring and fall. During this time, thousands of reindeer are herded from one grazing area to another. This tradition has been a part of Sami culture for thousands of years.

Swedish Table Etiquette

Swedes take their table etiquette very seriously. Here are some important customs to keep in mind:

Wait until everyone is seated before beginning to eat.
Don't start eating until the host or hostess has said "smaklig måltid" (enjoy your meal).
Use a knife and fork to eat, and keep your hands above the table when not eating.
Don't talk with your mouth full or make loud noises while eating.
Always pass dishes to your left.

By observing these customs, you'll show respect for Swedish culture and make a good impression on your hosts or dinner companions.

Sources

Table of Contents - Swedish Course - 0 to A1

Course Presentation

Introduction to Swedish

Swedish Pronouns

Colors and Numbers

Swedish Culture

Swedish Verbs

Body parts and health

Swedish Nouns

Travel and directions

Sweden's history

Swedish Adjectives

Jobs and professions

Videos

Understanding Swedish Culture - YouTube

17 Weird Things Swedish People Do !! (culture fun facts) - YouTube

Sweden: 12 Interesting Facts and Presentation of Swedish Traditions

Swedish Christmas and Advent traditions and culture - YouTube

Other Lessons

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