julafton.nu
Advent
For many people the Christmas season starts on the first Sunday of Advent. Electric candleholders, stars, four Advent candles, gingerbread and glögg brighten the dark weeks.
Lucia on 13 December
Lucia processions with white gowns, candles, songs, saffron buns and coffee are a distinctive Swedish December tradition celebrated in schools, workplaces, churches and homes.
Christmas tree, julbord and Donald Duck
The tree is usually decorated before Christmas Eve. Families gather around the julbord and at 3 pm many watch the annual Disney programme “From All of Us to All of You”, a Swedish TV tradition since 1960.
Santa and presents
The Swedish jultomte combines traits of the old farm gnome with the international Santa Claus. In many homes Santa appears after the TV programme or dinner to hand out presents.
Make the celebration your own
No Swedish Christmas requires every tradition. Some families prioritise church, others food, children, presents or simply a quiet day together.
Gather Swedish Christmas songs in one ready-made song booklet.
Open the song booklet →Frequently asked questions
Why do Swedes celebrate mainly on Christmas Eve?
In the Nordic countries, the evening before a church feast historically became a central part of the celebration, and Christmas Eve evolved into the main family day.
When do Swedes decorate the tree?
It varies from early December to the days just before Christmas Eve.
Is Donald Duck really a Swedish Christmas tradition?
Yes. The 3 pm Christmas Eve broadcast has been a strong national tradition since 1960.