Start the year with Fat Tuesday and Waffle Day
February – March
“Fettisdagen” is one of Sweden’s most beloved traditions. What does “Fettisdagen” mean? Fat Tuesday simply means “Fat Tuesday,” but it is now commonly referred to as Semla Day. The tradition originates from Christianity’s Carnival and was part of the preparations for Lent before Easter. Nowadays, we celebrate just because it’s so delicious! Swedes traditionally celebrate by eating semlor, a wheat bun filled with almond paste and whipped cream, but it comes in many variations, including chocolate, vanilla, and even Danish-style semlor. Take the opportunity to visit Artisan in Karlstad during your visit to Värmland and treat yourself to a semla.
Another popular day is Waffle Day on March 25, which according to old belief marks the arrival of spring. The tradition is thought to have arisen from a linguistic mistake, as the day is actually called “Vårfrudagen” (Virgin Mary’s Annunciation Day), but the pronunciation resembled “Våffeldagen” (Waffle Day), and so waffles became part of the celebration! You can eat waffles at any meal, whether you’re craving a waffle for a snack with cream and jam or for dinner with salmon and roe, you can find it in Värmland. A popular place to stop for their delicious waffles is Wiksforsmagazinet in Säffle.
Celebrate Easter the traditional Swedish way
March – April
Experience Easter in Värmland with traditional food, Easter eggs, and the feeling of spring. Visit art tours, charming manor houses and farm shops offering local delicacies. For children, Easter witches and candy hunts await, while nature invites you to wonderful spring outings. A perfect mix of tradition and experiences!
Celebrate Spring with Walpurgis Night
April 30
On April 30, “Valborgsmässoafton” (Walpurgis Night) is celebrated in Sweden with bonfires, choir singing, and spring speeches. The tradition has roots in both medieval protective rituals and student celebrations, but above all, Walpurgis Night is celebrated to welcome spring. In Värmland, you can experience Walpurgis Night in several parks where bonfires are lit and choir songs echo. Perfect for a cozy evening filled with warmth, togetherness, and the feeling of spring!
Ascension of Christ – perfect for a relaxing weekend
May – June
Ascension Day has a Christian origin and occurs 40 days after Easter. It is a public holiday in Sweden, and for many Swedes, it’s a day for relaxation, spring outings, and unwinding. In Värmland, you can enjoy nature experiences, farm shops, and cozy cafés.
Swedens National Day
June 6
On June 6, Sweden’s National Day is celebrated, a day that honors the country’s history and independence. The celebration includes flags, songs, and ceremonies, and many municipalities arrange festivities. In Värmland, you can experience speeches, music, and folk dances, often at historic sites or manor houses. Many also take the opportunity to visit heritage sites where Swedish traditions are highlighted. National Day is a perfect chance to experience Swedish culture and community during your trip to Värmland.
Midsummer – One of the Year’s Biggest Celebrations
June
Midsummer, which falls on a Friday between June 19–25, is one of Sweden’s most beloved holidays. The tradition consists of dancing around the maypole, flower crowns, and delicious food such as herring, potatoes, and strawberries. In Värmland, you can participate in local celebrations in parks and at heritage sites. A perfect holiday for those who want to experience Swedish summer at its best!
Late Summer – A Paradise for Fish and Seafood Lovers
August – September
When late summer arrives and the evenings start getting darker, it’s time for the crayfish party. This beloved Swedish tradition involves gathering to eat crayfish, drink schnapps, and sing crayfish songs. The day is filled with colorful decorations, often with red tablecloths and lanterns. In Värmland, you can enjoy fish and seafood at Lillängshamnens Fish Smokehouse on Hammarö.
The Surströmming premiere is celebrated every year on the third Thursday of August, marking the start of the season for the controversial Swedish delicacy, surströmming. The tradition involves opening cans of the strongly scented fish and eating it with bread, onions, and thin flatbread. In Värmland, you can join in this traditional festivity and try a taste experience that is both loved and talked about in Sweden.
Cinnamon Bun Day – One of Sweden’s Most Famous Days
October 4
On October 4, Cinnamon Bun Day is celebrated in Sweden to honor the classic Swedish cinnamon bun. The tradition started in 1999 and has become a beloved part of Swedish fika culture. On this day, you can enjoy freshly baked cinnamon buns at cafés and bakeries throughout Värmland, such as Artisan, Grön Ko Café & Saluhall, and Culinarum Café.
Advent and the Arrival of Christmas
November – December
The fourth Sunday before Christmas marks the beginning of the countdown to Christmas, with Advent being celebrated each Sunday. During this time, Advent candles are lit, homes are decorated, and the Christmas spirit spreads. In Värmland, you can experience cozy Christmas markets with local crafts and delicacies. The day of Lucia celebrations, December 13th, is also an important part of the traditions, with light processions and singing spreading warmth and togetherness. During December, you can also enjoy various saffron pastries, such as Lussekatter.