American Tommy Paul Wins Nordic Open 2024

By

-

October 21, 2024

Tommy Paul added another chapter to his breakout season by winning the 2024 Nordic Open in Stockholm. This ATP 250 event, known for its exciting matchups and passionate Scandinavian crowd, saw Paul navigate through tough competition to claim the title. His aggressive style, athleticism, and strategic shot-making shone as he secured a well-deserved victory, cementing his place among tennis’s rising stars.

Tommy Paul: A Rising Star

Tommy Paul has been steadily climbing the ATP rankings, and 2024 has been a standout year for the American. Known for his powerful groundstrokes, quick footwork, and tactical variety, Paul has proven he can go toe-to-toe with the best. His ability to perform on various surfaces makes him a versatile and dangerous player, and his mental toughness is becoming one of his biggest assets.

Born in 1997 in New Jersey, Paul burst onto the scene in 2015 when he won the French Open Boys’ Singles title. Since then, he’s worked his way up the professional circuit, with notable wins and deep runs at various ATP tournaments. Paul’s ability to mix up his game, combining heavy baseline hitting with deft touch at the net, makes him unpredictable and fun to watch. His endurance and speed allow him to thrive in long rallies, while his serve has become a real weapon.

In 2024, Paul made waves with impressive performances at major events, including a strong run at the Australian Open. His victory at the Nordic Open only adds to his growing reputation as a player capable of contending for big titles, as he continues his rise up the ATP ranks.

Scandinavian Stars Shine Bright

While Tommy Paul was the man of the hour, the 2024 Nordic Open also showcased some of Scandinavia’s top talent. Leading the charge was Holger Rune, Denmark’s dynamic young star. Rune has had a breakout season, reaching new heights in the rankings. Though he fell in a dramatic quarterfinal match, Rune’s fearless, aggressive play showed why he’s one of the most exciting players on tour.

Sweden’s Mikael Ymer also competed, though his journey ended in the round of 16. Despite the early exit, Ymer continues to carry the torch for Swedish tennis and remains a fan favorite in his home country. Norway’s Casper Ruud, typically a clay-court specialist, surprised many with a semifinal run, proving he’s dangerous on indoor hard courts as well.

Leo Borg: Carrying a Legendary Name

Leo Borg, the son of Swedish tennis legend Björn Borg, was one of the most anticipated players at this year’s Nordic Open. While still early in his career, the 21-year-old is showing promise. Playing in his hometown of Stockholm, Borg faced immense pressure, but handled the expectations admirably. Though he exited in the second round, Borg showed glimpses of his father’s fighting spirit and is steadily improving with each tournament. Fans are eager to see how his career will unfold as he continues to develop his game.

A Bright Future for Scandinavian Tennis

The 2024 Nordic Open wasn’t just about Tommy Paul’s triumph—it also served as a showcase for Scandinavia’s growing tennis talent. With players like Holger Rune, Casper Ruud, and Leo Borg in the mix, the region is producing world-class competitors capable of making waves on the global stage.

Celebrating 10 Years of the Nordic International Film Festival

By

Natalie Söderberg

-

October 14, 2024

0

Celebrating 10 Years of the Nordic International Film Festival

The Nordic International Film Festival (NIFF) is marking its tenth anniversary in 2024, celebrating a decade of promoting Nordic cinema, inclusivity, and sustainability. Founded in 2015 by Swedish actors and producers Linnea Larsdotter Mikkelä and Johan Matton, NIFF has grown into the largest Nordic film festival outside Europe, held annually in New York City.

Brought to fruition with the help of a long list of Nordic brand sponsors such as Volvo, Absolut, Norse Airways, The Scandinavia Box, and Orrefors with Swedes in the States and Variety as media sponsors, this celebratory anniversary event is set to top previous years.

Twenty-one viewings, three international premiers, and nine North American premieres are set to take place during the film fest with ‘The Idiot’ and ‘Elskling’ being the most anticipated showing during the fest. Other favorites during the film festival are the short docs ‘Life of Eberling’ and ‘The Remaining Ones’.

Although opening night is invite-only, anyone can participate in the film festival’s viewings with tickets being purchased on NIFF’s official website.

Leading the Way in Sustainability

NIFF is also a pioneer in promoting sustainability within the film industry. It was the first film festival in the world to climate-compensate for all air travel associated with the event, taking a proactive approach to reducing the environmental impact of filmmaking and global participation. This commitment to sustainability extends to their policies for attendees. Festival organizers encourage visitors and filmmakers to wear recycled or second-hand clothing, discouraging the purchase of new outfits for red carpet-events. In addition, all food, snacks, and drinks served during the festival will be entirely plant-based, further reflecting NIFF’s dedication to minimizing its carbon footprint and promoting environmentally conscious lifestyles.

Championing Inclusivity

A distinctive feature of NIFF’s programming is its commitment to diversity and equality, exemplified by its emphasis on films that pass the Bechdel Test. Created by cartoonist Alison Bechdel, this test evaluates whether a film includes at least two women who have a conversation about something other than a man. NIFF uses the test to keep statistics on which films that feature strong female characters and narratives. By doing so, the festival encourages the creation of films that prioritize gender equity and challenge traditional cinematic norms. Additionally, NIFF incorporates the Vito Russo Test to ensure representation of LGBTQIA+ characters, fostering inclusivity across multiple dimensions of identity.

Looking Forward: A Decade of Transformation

As NIFF celebrates its tenth anniversary, it continues to stand at the forefront of cinematic innovation, diversity, and sustainability. This year’s edition promises a diverse selection of films from Nordic and international filmmakers, retrospectives, panels, and networking events, all underpinned by NIFF’s core values of inclusion and environmental responsibility.

For more information on the Nordic International Film Festival and its upcoming celebration, visit their [official website](https://www.nordicfilmfest.org/festival).

Thursday, October 17, 2024

Opening Night Film

7:00 PM – 8:30 PM – ‘Elskling’

Friday, October 18, 2024

Documentary Shorts

2:00 PM – 3:30 PM – ‘Entropy’, ‘The League – A Future for Freeskiing’, ‘Fat Dance’

Documentary

3:45 PM – 5:30 PM – ‘The Remarkable Life of Ibelin’

International Shorts Block

5:45 PM – 7:15 PM – ‘I’m not a robot’, What Woman Wants, God Wants’, ‘Trapped’, ‘The Robbers’

Saturday, October 19, 2024

Feature Film

12:30 PM – 2:00 PM – ‘A Place in the Sun’

Nordic Shorts Block A

4:30 PM 6:30 PM – ‘Neon’, ‘Goodnight, then’, ‘Game Rules’, ‘Showers’, ‘Bicycle Thief’

Nordic Shorts Block B

4:30 PM 6:30 PM – ‘The Remaining Ones’, ‘Rainbow Dick’, ‘Amidst’, ‘Camping in Paradise’, ‘Fest & Stress’,

Feature Film

7:30 PM – 9:15 PM – ‘The Idiot’

Kanelbullens Dag: Why Swedes celebrate the Cinnamon Bun

By

Swedes in the States

-

October 4, 2024

0

Swedes in the States Kanelbullar Swedish Cinnamon Bun Kanelbullens Dag Why do Swedes celebrate the Cinnamon Bun?

Every year on October 4th, Swedes go a little crazier than usual for the Cinnamon Bun. This day marks Kanelbullens Dag in Sweden, also known as Cinnamon Bun Day to the rest of the world observing this beloved tradition from the outside. The holiday was established in 1999 by Hembakningsrådet, the Swedish Home Baking Council, to encourage Swedes to start baking more at home. October 4th was chosen as it fell perfectly between holidays and did not interfere with other celebrations or special days.

The day was also intended to serve as an inspiration to do good and give thought to the numerous charitable organizations that use October as an awareness month. During October month both breast cancer and children’s rights tend to stand in the spotlight. Because of this, bakeries tend to donate part of their proceeds from selling cinnamon buns to a charity such as Bröstcancerfonden or Childhood Foundation.

More than just an excuse to indulge in baked goods, Cinnamon Bun Day is a celebration of community, togetherness, and taking time to enjoy life’s simple pleasures. In fact, almost 60% of Swedes partake in the tradition by sharing cinnamon buns with family, friends, or coworkers. Beyond Sweden, even Swedish communities around the world mark the day, making the celebration a global affair.

The Swedish Cinnamon Bun vs The American Cinnamon Bun

Unlike its sticky American counterpart, the Swedish Cinnamon Bun is typically less sweet, smaller, and comes without the frosting. Most Swedes will usually frown at the very idea of a cinnamon bun being drenched in any type of frosting or glaze. Instead, the Swedes will usually garnish their cinnamon buns with pearl sugar, cardamom, or just normal sugar. This bun has become synonymous with Sweden’s tradition of fika, a coffee break that isn’t complete without something sweet to nibble on.

In the end, Cinnamon Bun Day is more than just a sugar rush—it’s a heartfelt tradition that reflects the Swedish spirit of warmth, hospitality, and the simple joy of sharing something homemade.

Guide: Where to buy Swedish Cinnamon Buns in the U.S.

By

Swedes in the States

-

October 3, 2024

0

swedes in the states guide where to buy swedish cinnamon buns

Get ready to loosen those belts – tomorrow is Cinnamon Bun Day in Sweden!

That’s right—a whole day dedicated to devouring as many of these sweet and spiced wonders as you can manage. Tradition says you’re supposed to bake them yourself, but if the thought of a kitchen full of flour and sticky dough makes you want to cry, your local Swedish bakery has your back.

If you have one, lucky you! If not, don’t panic—we’ve got a recipe to save you. And if you happen to know of a hidden gem serving the real-deal, frosting-free Swedish cinnamon buns, drop it in the comments or on our social media, so we can all join the bun hunt!

California

San Francisco & Bay Area

Stockhome

Address: 220 Western Ave. Petaluma, California 94952
Website: https://www.stockhomerestaurant.com/

Kantine

Address: 1906 Market St, San Francisco, CA 94102
Website: http://kantinesf.com/

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Kantine (@kantinesf)

Creekside Bakery

Address: 1719 Grant Ave, Novato, CA 94945
Website:https://www.creeksidebakery.com/

Los Angeles & Southern California

Clark Street Bakery

Website: www.clarkstreetbakery.com

Locations:

Brentwood: 11702 Barrington Ct
Echo Park: 331 Glendale Blvd
Downtown: 1115 W Sunset Blvd & 317 S Broadway

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Zack Hall (@clarkstreetbread)

Berolina Bakery

Address: 3421 Ocean View Blvd, Glendale, CA 91208
Website: http://www.berolinabakery.com/

Illinois

Chicago

Bennison’s Bakery

Address: 1000 Davis St, Evanston, IL 60201
Website: http://www.bennisonscakes.com/

Tre Kronor

Address: 3258 W Foster Ave, Chicago, IL 60625
Website: http://www.trekronorrestaurant.com/

Lost Larson

Address: 5318 N. Clark St., Chicago, Illinois 60640
Website: https://www.lostlarson.com

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Lost Larson (@lostlarson)

The Swedish American Museum

Address: 5211 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60640
FB page: https://www.facebook.com/SwedishAmericanMuseum/

Kentucky

Louisville

Smør Nordic Bakeri

Address:3797 Poplar Level Rd, Louisville, KY 40213
Website:https://www.smornordicbakeri.com/

Michigan

Birmingham

Svenska Café

Address: 930 E Maple Rd, Birmingham, MI, 48009
Website:https://www.svenska-cafe.com/

New York

New York City

Aquavit Restaurant

Address: 65 E 55th St, New York, NY
Website: http://www.aquavit.org/

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by AQUAVIT NYC (@aquavitnyc)

Konditori

Address (8 locations in NY):
135 William Street, New York, NY 10038
114 Smith Street, Brooklyn, NY 11201
186 5th Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11217
696 Washington Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11238
687 Manhattan Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11222
167 N 7th Street, Brooklyn, NY 11211

Website: http://www.konditori.com/

The Swedish Church in New York

Address: 5 E 48th St, New York, NY 10017
FB page: https://www.facebook.com/svenskakyrkannewyork/

Björk Cafe & Bistro

Address: 58 Park Ave, New York, NY 10016
Website: https://www.bjorkcafe.com/

Fabrique Bakery

Address: 348 W 14th St, New York, NY 10014
Website: http://fabriquebakery.com/

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Fabrique Bakery (@fabriquebakery)

Hudson Valley

HÅKAN Chocolatier

This Swedish-owned chocolatier located in Beacon, New York will be serving up the Swedish Semla. Grab yourself some Scandinavian-inspired bonbons to go with.

Address: 462 Main St, Beacon, NY 12508
Website:https://www.hakanchocolatier.com/

New Jersey

Hackensack

Bageriet

Address: 355 Essex Street, Hackensack, New Jersey 07601
Website: https://www.thebageriet.com/

Minnesota

Minneapolis

American Swedish Institute – FIKA the café at ASI

Address: 2600 Park Avenue, Minneapolis MN 55407
Website: https://www.asimn.org/visit/fika-cafe

Florida

West Palm Beach

Johans Joe

Address: 401 S Dixie Highway Ste. 3, West Palm Beach, Fl 33401
Website: https://www.johansjoe.com/

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Johan’s Joe Swedish Restaurant (@johansjoe)

Virginia

Richmond

Axelsdotter Bakery

Address: No storefront, but located in Richmond, VA.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/axelsdotterbakery/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/axelsdotterbakery/

Washington

Seattle

Byen Bakery

Address: 15 Nickerson St, Seattle, WA 98109
Website: https://www.byenbakeri.com/

Washington, D.C.

Mikko Nordic Fine Foods

Address: 1636 R Street NW | Washington, DC, 20009
Website: https://www.chefmikko.com/

Recipe: Swedish Cinnamon Buns

By

Swedes in the States

-

October 3, 2024

0

With places like Bulle Bakery in Southern California and Fabrique in New York City constantly selling out of Swedish cinnamon buns, you’d think every day is Cinnamon Bun Day! But here’s the scoop: October 4th has been the official National Cinnamon Bun Day in Sweden since 1999, all thanks to the Swedish Home Baking Council, who gave us this tasty tradition.

And to celebrate the day, we’ve got a delicious recipe lined up so you can whip up a batch of these iconic buns right at home!

Swedish Cinnamon Buns
– 2 Pkg. Active yeast, dry (I used Fleischmann’s active dry)
– 1 ½ Cups Butter
– 2 ½ Cups Whole milk
– 2 Tsp. Cardamom, freshly grounded
– 1 Cup Sugar
– 1 Tsp. Salt
– 8 Cups All-purpose flour or bread flour
– 2 Tbsp. Cinnamon
– 1 large egg
– Pearl Sugar or thinly sliced almonds

1. 1. Heat milk to a light boil, turning off the heat when it reaches the scalding point (with small bubbles across the top).
  2. Stir in melted butter, sugar, salt, and ground cardamom. Let mixture cool until finger-warm (still quite warm, but just cool enough to touch).
  3. Stir in yeast and let sit for 10 minutes.
  4. Add flour to mixture 1/2 cup at a time until dough is firm and pulls away from the side of your mixing bowl. If using a stand mixer, exchange the mixing paddle for the dough hook after you’ve added the first 5 cups of flour. Use the dough hook to mix and knead the dough as you add the remaining 3 cups of flour.
  5. Cover the dough in the mixing bowl with a clean towel and let rise until doubled, about an hour.
1. 1. Punch down the dough, then remove from bowl.
  2. On a floured counter, knead dough lightly until smooth and shiny.
  3. Divide dough into two halves and use to make cinnamon buns.

Roll each half of dough into a 12” by 18” rectangle. Brush each rectangle well with melted butter. Combine 2/3 cup sugar and 2 Tbsp. cinnamon. Sprinkle evenly over the 2 rectangles. Fold the rectangle upwards to make a double layer. Using a sharp or serrated knife, cut each cylinder into 18-20 equal slices. Twist each slice in opposite directions and roll into a bun, see pictures down below.

Place each slice into a paper cupcake wrapper and place on baking sheet. Cover with a towel and allow to double in size, about 45 minutes. Preheat oven to 425º. After that brush risen cinnamon rolls with egg wash and sprinkle with pearl sugar and/or almonds. Place in the middle of a preheated oven and bake for 8 minutes, or until done (I baked mine for 10 minutes).

This article was originally published on Oct 4, 2017, and has since been edited.

Kräftskiva: The origin behind Sweden’s spectacular crayfish parties

By

Swedes in the States

-

August 29, 2024

0

The first Sunday of August marks the beginning of crayfish season in Sweden – a day most famously known as ‘kräftpremiär’ by Swedes, roughly translated to crayfish premiere.

Crayfish season begins in early August and extends until the end of October. For those fortunate enough to have private access to lakes, it is customary to go fishing for crayfish. Otherwise, this is the brief period when Swedish crayfish can be found in most grocery stores.

Regardless of how the crayfish are acquired, a party, known as a kräftskiva, to celebrate the season is one of the most cherished Swedish customs. Let’s delve into the tradition and its origins:

What does a typical crayfish party look like?

Swedes typically celebrate crayfish season with elaborate dinner parties, most of which are likely to take place in the countryside or archipelago. The table is laden with crayfish, potatoes, bread and cheese, salads, and västerbottenpaj – a typical Swedish cheese pie.

As with every Swedish party, there will be plenty of drinks such as beer, aquavit, and snaps. Similar to the Swedish midsummer celebration, every shot, or “nubbe,” of akvavit or snaps begins with a short song, known as a “nubbevisa.”

READ: Why do Scandinavians sing before drinking?

Credits: Anna Hållams/imagebank.sweden.se

Why do Swedes celebrate crayfish, and where does the tradition originate?

Crayfish has been a part of Scandinavian cuisine since the Middle Ages. During the 1500s, they were commonly served as a festive dish during royal celebrations or among the upper class. It wasn’t until the 1800s that crayfish gained popularity among the general population. Due to the rationalization in farming during that era, many farmworkers were left without jobs. To survive, many of these workers turned to fishing instead, making crayfish more widely accessible to all layers of society.

A hundred years later, in the early 1900s, crayfish became so popular among the Swedes that the government imposed several restrictions out of fear that crayfish would go extinct. This meant that crayfish could only be caught between August and the end of October. This law was revised in 1994, allowing for the fishing of crayfish at any time of year. However, some local restrictions may still apply to give crayfish in a specific ecosystem time to grow.

Credits: Heléne Grynfarb/imagebank.sweden.se

Credits: Anders Ekholm/Folio/imagebank.sweden.se

What is the history of Crayfish parties (Kräftskivor)?

Swedes have been celebrating the start of crayfish season since the late 1800s. Although the celebrations at the time were more modest compared to modern-day crayfish parties, known as kräftskiva.

With the government once again introducing restrictions on crayfish fishing, crayfish became an exclusive delicacy primarily available to the upper class. It was during this period, in the 1930s, that crayfish parties gained popularity. Over time, as crayfish became more widely available, the tradition spread to all layers of Swedish society.

Today, it remains an essential tradition for Swedes and is viewed as a special time to gather with friends and family, savor crayfish, and celebrate the arrival of fall.

Credits: Emma Ivarsson/imagebank.sweden.se

Featured image: Anna Hållams/imagebank.sweden.se

[Recipe] The Big Swedish Midsummer Menu

By

Swedes in the States

-

June 17, 2024

0

The mythological, romantic, and fun Midsummer is just a few days away!

It is safe to say that this holiday is one of the Swede’s favorite holidays. Since the food, and drinks are a vital part of every midsummer celebration, we have decided to compile a Midsummer menu, recipes included, for you to try. If you’re not the home chef type, make sure to support your local Scandinavian caterer/café/restaurant by ordering your Midsummer food from them.

So, what do the Swedes typically eat during midsummer?

Potatoes, sour cream & chives, and dill, so much dill.

We are starting out easy. Peel and boil some potatoes with dill.
Chop some chives and sprinkle on top of the sour cream.

Salmon

All shapes and forms of salmon would work here, but typically gravlax or cold-smoked salmon are the crowd favorites. Serve with either mustard & dill sauce or rom sauce. We found a great selection of sauces at the Swedish online food store, Swedishness.

Skagen toast

One of the best dishes to ever hail out of Sweden. You are most definitely going to want to serve this on your midsummer table. The one and only, Big Swede BBQ, makes the best Skagen Toast we’ve tried so far.

Recipe: Toast Skagen With A Twist

Smörgåstårta

Smörgåstårta is one of the Swede’s best party tricks. This dish is easy to make, versatile enough to fit anyone’s palate, dietary restrictions, or preferences, and it’s filling. Also, a smörgåstårta is a sure sign of summer in Sweden.

[Recipe] Swedish Sandwich Cake – Smörgåstårta

Recipe: Smoked Salmon Sandwich Cake (Smörgåstårta)

Pickled Herring

Ah, the pickled herring! A staple on the Midsummer, Christmas, Easter, any table really. We found a recipe from honest-food.net for you brave souls out there, but you can also go the easy route and click home a few jars of herring from Amazon, or check out the large selection of herring at Swedishness. We’re especially curious about the Limited Edition: Asian Fusion Herring from ABBA.

Surströmming

Pickled herrings evil cousin. Look, we’re not saying you have to, but is it really a Swedish midsummer without surströmming? Effectively striking out your family and friends for a good couple of minutes is the best way to start a party. Fair warning – if you are indoors, don’t bother unless you are willing to repaint the walls in your house.

Meatballs

No surprise here. Some have them, some don’t. If you’re not into the fishy stuff, meatballs are a good substitute. We’ve included IKEA’s recipe here. And there’s a vegetarian version too. Hooray!

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by IKEA USA (@ikeausa)

Schnapps & Akvavit

This could get tricky as schnapps in the United States normally is not the same as snaps in Scandinavia. But, there are a few companies in the United States that sell akvavit. We suggest looking into brands like Norden Aquavit or Åhus Akvavit.

Cheese

During Midsummer, Swedes enjoy a variety of cheeses, with Jarlsberg, Hushållsost, and Västerbotten being among the favorites. Jarlsberg, similar to the popular Swedish cheese Herrgårdsost, is widely available in grocery stores across the U.S., including Whole Foods.

Västerbotten cheese, however, is considered the true holiday cheese in Sweden but can be quite difficult to find in the U.S. Although some specialty stores carry it, we recommend trying Swedishness, where we successfully ordered our Västerbotten cheese. If you can get your hands on Västerbotten or Hushållsost, it would most definitely be worth the effort for that authentic touch to your Midsummer celebration.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Jarlsberg® (@jarlsberg_)

Did we miss a popular dish or recipe? Don’t hesitate to get in touch with us on social media or at hello@swedesinthestates.com

This article was originally published on June 18, 2020 and has since then been edited and updated.

This is how and why Swedes celebrate Midsummer

By

Luda Berdnyk

-

June 16, 2024

0

Midsummer has arrived, filling the air with its enchanting presence.

Whether you’re Swedish or fortunate to have a Swede among your group of friends, the magic and excitement of midsummer can be felt in the air, no matter where in the world you are.

While Scandinavians excel at the celebration aspect of holidays, you’ll more than likely be met with an ‘öh?’ if you ask them to recount the historical background of their festivities. But fear not, for we’re here to unravel the mystery of Midsummer for you.

HISTORY

The ancient tradition of Midsummer is typically celebrated on the Saturday between June 19 and June 25, aligning with the summer solstice. This year, Midsummer will take place on June 25.

Originally observed on June 24, which coincided with the feast day of Saint John the Baptist, Midsummer was a joyous event aimed at bidding farewell to the dreary winter and embracing the arrival of summer. The festivities included feasting, dancing, a copious amount of drinking, and enjoying the company of friends and family—all traditions that persist to this day. For many Swedes, midsummer marks the beginning of their famous month-long summer vacation.

READ: Swedens Famous, Month-Long Vacation Law Is Over 80 Years Old

HOW TO CELEBRATE MIDSUMMER

There are numerous ways to celebrate Midsummer but we have compiled a list of essential elements for any Midsummer celebration below. We also recommend checking out our popular Midsummer menu article, which features delightful recipes for beloved summer dishes.

READ: [Recipe] The Big Swedish Midsummer Menu

NATURE/SUMMER HOUSES/PARKS: Midsummer festivities are traditionally celebrated in natural settings, ranging from parks and gardens to cottages and the picturesque archipelago. Among these, the most favored location is a summer house, also known as a “landställe.”

FOOD: While the main focus of Midsummer may primarily be on drinks and dancing around the maypole, it is still an ideal occasion to indulge in the delightful elements of Sweden’s fresh summer cuisine. Bursting with a variety of seafood delicacies, you can expect to find an assortment of pickled herring, boiled new potatoes adorned with fresh dill, salmon, smörgåstårta, and other delectable dishes. For dessert, it is highly likely that you will be enjoying a classic Swedish strawberry cake or fresh berries accompanied by whipped cream.

DRINKS: To wash down all of that delicious food, Swedes come prepared.

The go-to choices are cold beer and wine, accompanied by the indispensable snaps. It’s worth noting that Midsummer holds the distinction of being the occasion when Swedes consume the highest amount of alcohol throughout the entire year.

THE MAYPOLE: No Midsummer celebration is complete without the iconic maypole. Adorned with flowers and lush greenery, the maypole serves as the centerpiece for Swedes to engage in joyful singing and dancing. One particularly amusing dance to witness is “Små grodorna” or “The Little Frogs,” where participants hop around and mimic frog-like movements while singing. Yes, adults too.

The tradition of the maypole, like many other Midsummer customs, traces its roots back to ancient times and symbolizes fertility. However, the concept of fertility extends beyond human relationships and encompasses the fertility of the earth. And, as you may have already guessed, the maypole itself symbolically represents the male genitalia. So, indeed, Swedes merrily dance around a floral representation of male genitalia while pretending to be frogs. It’s a unique aspect of the celebration that adds to the charm and character of Midsummer.

LEGENDS: Midsummer is a time of mystery and magic. There’s a traditional belief that if a girl picks 7 different flowers during the midsummer night and puts them underneath her pillow, she will dream of her future husband. Legend also has it that the night of midsummer eve is a magical time for love. Although Swedes are usually not the spiritual or religious types, many can attest to the captivating magic of midsummer and the ancient traditions that emphasize love during this weekend. In fact, until recently, the end of March held the record for the highest number of births in Sweden. Midsummer undoubtedly being the culprit.

How are you planning to celebrate this year’s Midsummer? Share your plans in the comments below!

Featured image: Per Bifrost/imagebank.sweden.se

This article was originally published on June 19, 2020 and has since been updated.

Swedes in the States Annual Midsummer Guide: Celebrations across the U.S.

By

Swedes in the States

-

June 16, 2024

1

Get ready for Sweden’s most romantic, magical, and fun holiday: Midsummer

Scandinavian organizations across the United States are busily preparing for the upcoming Midsummer events. And prepared they have! Expect grand celebrations in every corner of the country, thanks to organizations like the Swedish Consulates, the Swedish-American Chamber of Commerce, SWEA, the Vasa Order, and many more.

We’ve done our utmost to compile all events in one place, but some may have escaped our notice. If you find an event missing from our guide, please reach out to the Swedes in the States team on social media or via email.

Get ready to celebrate Midsummer like a Swede with the Swedes in the States Annual Midsummer Guide:

Last updated June 16, 2024

California

Los Angeles

Swedish Church of Los Angeles, Midsummer Celebration
When: Saturday, June 22, 2024, 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Where: 1035 S. Beacon St., San Pedro

For more info: https://www.churchofswedenla.com/events/midsommarfirande-22-juni/2024-06-22

San Francisco

SWEDISH AMERICAN PATRIOTIC LEAGUE 130th Midsummer Celebration

When: Saturday, June 122, 2024. 10:00 am – 7:30 pm
Where: 8220 Croy Road, Morgan Hill, CA 95037, Sveadal

For more info: https://www.sveadal.org/midsummer

San Diego

House of Sweden – Celebrate A Swedish Midsummer
When: Sunday, June 23, 2024. 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm

For more info: https://www.houseofsweden.us/midsummer.html

Colorado

Estes Park

Scandinavian Midsummer Festival – Scandinavian Alliance of Colorado
When: June 14-16, 2024
Where: MacGregor Ave, Estes Park, Colorado 80517

For more info: https://www.estesmidsummer.com/midsummer-info

—

Connecticut

Fairfield

The Scandinavian Club Midsummer Family Picnic

When: Sunday, June 23, 2024. 12:00 – 4:00 PM
Where: See details in the link below

For more info: https://thescandinavianclub.com/upcoming-events/

Illinois

Geneva

114th Svenskarnas Dag (Swedish Day) Midsummer Festival

When: Sunday, June 16, 2024. 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Where: See details in the link below

For more info: https://www.goodtemplarpark.org/events/2023/6/18/113-swedish-day

Massachusetts

Shrewsbury

The Scandinavian Athletic Club: 121st Scandinavian Midsummer Festival

When: Saturday, June 22, 2024. 10:30 AM to 4:00 PM
Where: The Scandinavian Athletic Club at SAC Park. 438 Lake Street, Shrewsbury, Massachusetts 01545

For more info: https://sacmidsummer.com/

Maryland

Bethesda

American Scandinavian Association: Annual Midsommar Celebration
When: Sunday, June 23, 2024 at 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Where: Carderock Picnic Pavilion, 9500 MacArthur Blvd, Bethesda, MD 20817

For more info: http://scandinavian-dc.org/events/

Michigan

Grand Rapids

The Swedish American Heritage Society: Annual Midsummer Celebration
When: Saturday, June 22, 2024. Starts 11:00 AM
Where: Caledonia Lakeside Park, 370 N Lake St SE, Caledonia, MI 49316

For more info: http://www.sahswm.org/programs.html

Minnesota

Minneapolis

American-Swedish Institute: Midsummer Celebration
When: Saturday, June 15, 2024. 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Where: 2600 Park Ave, Minneapolis, MN, 55407

For more info: https://asimn.org/experience/festivals/midsommar/

New York

New York City

Swedish Midsummer Festival
When: Friday, June 21, 2024. 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Where: Rockefeller Park, Battery Park City

For more info: Visit The Swedish Consulate in New York’s website

—

Windham

Eastwind Hotel & Bar: Swedish Midsommar

When: Saturday, June 22, 2024. 5:00 PM – 9:30 PM
Where: Eastwind Hotel & Bar, 5088 NY-23, Windham, NY

More info: https://www.eastwindhotels.com/event-details/windham-swedish-midsommar

New Jersey

Hackettstown

Vasa Order: Midsommar Celebration and Viking Marketplace

When: Saturday, June 22, 2024. 11.00 AM to 4:00 PM
Where: VASA PARK, Hackettstown, NJ.

More info: https://www.vasaparknj.com/events/midsommar-celebration-viking-market-3

Pennsylvania

Philadelphia

American Swedish Historical Museum: Midsommarfest

When: Saturday, June 22, 2024. 4:00 – 7:00 PM
Where: American Swedish Historical Museum, 1900 Pattison Ave, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19145

For more info: https://www.americanswedish.org/events/midsommarfest-3

—

Kenmore

Skandia’s Midsommarfest
When: Sunday, June 30th, 2024 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Where: St. Edward State Park, 14445 Juanita Drive NE, Kenmore, WA 98028

For more info: https://sites.google.com/view/skandiamidsommar

Utah

Salt Lake City

Swedish Heritage Society: Midsommarfest
When: Saturday, June 22, 2024. Starts at 3:00 pm
Where: International Peace Gardens, 1060 S 900 W, Salt Lake City, UT 84104

For more info: https://swedish-heritage-society-103491.square.site/

The Swedish National Day: This Is How & Why Swedes Celebrate June 6th

By

Luda Berdnyk

-

June 5, 2024

1

The Swedish National Day is here!

No matter how and where you might be celebrating, we hope you do it well. As with many of the Swedish celebrations, the Swedes know how to celebrate them, but not always why. That, however, does not apply to the Swedish National Day. This day is celebrated first and foremost thanks to Gustav Vasa, Sweden’s first real king, and you better believe the Swedes know it and know it with pride.

THE HISTORY

The history of Sweden’s National Day dates back all the way back to the 1500s. It was on June 6, 1523, that Gustav Vasa rode into Uppsala Domkyrka to be crowned king and subsequently liberated Sweden from the Kalmar Union, which at that time was comprised of Denmark, Sweden, and Norway.

Prepare for a journey back in time to June 6, 1523, and the charismatic Gustav Vasa riding into Uppsala Domkyrka. What’s the occasion? None other than his coronation as the king of Sweden. This remarkable event marked the liberation of Sweden from the Kalmar Union, a union encompassing Denmark, Sweden, and Norway. Fast forward 500 years and Sweden still celebrates this occasion in the most festive and patriotic way.

It was also on the 6th of June 1809, that Sweden experienced another monumental event. The nation adopted a new constitution, marking a significant turning point as political power was restored to the Riksdag.

THE CELEBRATION

It wasn’t until Sweden dissolved their union with Norway that Swedes started calling the 6th of June the “Swedish Flag Day”. It would, however, take almost 100 years for the Swedish parliament to recognize the day as an official holiday. In 2004, the parliament finally voted on the 6th of June to become the Swedish National holiday.

The earliest known National Day celebration came as an idea from Artur Hazelius, the visionary behind Skansen, the oldest open-air museum in Sweden. In the 1890s, he began organizing celebrations on June 6th, and to this day, Skansen remains the favorite destination for Stockholmers and even the Swedish Royal Family to revel in the festivities of the Swedish National Day.

HOW TO CELEBRATE

As one might expect of any Independence Day or National Day, there are plenty of celebrations all across the country. The most famous celebration takes place at Skansen, where the King and Queen of Sweden join the enthusiastic crowds in commemoration. Some Swedes may even dust off their national costume and wear it to the festivities.

The Swedish Royal family celebrating the national day at Skansen. Photo credit: Jessica Gow/TT

But the 6th of June is not only a celebration for Swedes, but also a significant milestone for thousands of individuals becoming new Swedish citizens. On this day auspicious occasion, citizenship ceremonies are held throughout the country, where eager individuals are sworn in and presented with their certificates of citizenship.

Are you planning to celebrate Sweden’s National Day? Let us know how you celebrate in the comments below, and Glad Nationaldag!

This article was originally published on June 6, 2020.