Holiday Season in Sweden

Across the country, your clients will discover cosy Christmas markets (julmarknader), pop-up shops, seasonal treats, and beautifully decorated streets to wander—either on their own or as part of guided walking tours. It’s the perfect season to slow down, explore, and enjoy.

A note about Christmas Eve: the heart of Swedish holiday celebrations

In Sweden, the real magic happens on 24 December, when families gather to share a traditional Christmas buffet (julbord), exchange gifts and enjoy the holiday together. Many businesses close on this day, including smaller and family-run hotels, to allow staff to celebrate.

That said, larger hotels and chains often stay open—especially in the north—where the festive season offers a chance to experience Sweden’s wintry wilderness in style. Lodges like Kukkolaforsen in Haparanda, Copperhill Mountain Lodge near Åre, and Brändön Lodge near Luleå offer holiday packages and New Year’s stays ideal for international guests seeking a snowy, storybook Christmas.

Christmas markets worth travelling for

Swedish julmarknader are a highlight of the season—atmospheric, beautifully lit, and full of seasonal charm. Visitors can sip a cup of warm glögg (Swedish mulled wine, with or without alcohol), nibble on crisp pepparkakor (ginger biscuits), and browse stalls packed with local crafts and festive fare.

• Gothenburg hosts the country’s largest market at Liseberg amusement park, transformed into a glowing winter wonderland.
• In Jokkmokk, deep in Sámi territory in Swedish Lapland, the Christmas market offers a more intimate, snow-dusted experience, with authentic Sámi handicrafts that make meaningful gifts.
• Stockholm’s Old Town (Gamla Stan) provides a postcard-perfect setting for a traditional market surrounded by medieval architecture and cobbled lanes.
• At the Kosta Outlet in Småland, home of the famed Kosta Boda glassworks, festive shoppers are treated to Dazzling light displays, sparkling decorations and Santa Claus himself.
• On the island of Gotland, the medieval town of Visby becomes a particularly atmospheric place to enjoy the season—with its Christmas market, narrow streets and centuries-old churches.

Cosy indoor traditions and stylish shopping

For clients looking to warm up indoors, Sweden’s cultural attractions and design stores stay open throughout the season.

A standout spot is Svenskt Tenn in Stockholm, which offers festive afternoon tea alongside tours of its elegant interiors and iconic design collection—ideal for thoughtful gift shopping.

Another fun (and fragrant) tradition? Building gingerbread houses (pepparkakshus). At Stockholm’s ArkDes museum, an annual exhibition showcases elaborate gingerbread creations from amateurs and professionals alike—a hit with kids and grown-ups.

Lucia: a celebration of light and togetherness

The holiday season in Sweden begins in earnest on 13 December, with the feast day of Lucia or St Lucy– a cherished tradition that blends ancient winter solstice customs with the story of a Christian martyr, bringing warmth and light to the darkest time of year.

From this day on, it’s officially time to put up decorations at home – or perhaps create a cosy little Lucia corner in your hotel room?

Lucia processions take place across the country, with children and young people dressed in white robes, singing traditional songs as they walk by candlelight (don’t worry – most of those flames are battery-powered these days). At the centre is Lucia herself, wearing a crown of candles and leading the way. It’s a beautiful, family-friendly celebration that holds a special place in Swedish hearts.

Where to experience Lucia

Lucia concerts are held in churches, cultural venues and even some hotels, and visitors are very welcome to join.

• In Gothenburg, the spectacular Oscar Fredrik Church hosts one of the city’s most popular Lucia celebrations – a grand setting for a moving tradition.
• Down south in Malmö, Lucia is celebrated with torches, choirs, and a horse-drawn procession weaving through the city centre in a stunning open-air display.
• In Stockholm, the open-air museum Skansen is a classic spot for Lucia, but for something more offbeat, recommend Folkmusikhuset Skeppis – where folk musicians reinterpret Lucia in playful, soulful and surprising ways.

A tradition you can stumble across

If your clients don’t have time for a concert, there’s still a good chance they’ll encounter Lucia singers during their travels. Choirs often perform in public spaces, from city squares to shopping centres and train stations. It’s one of those lovely moments where everyday life in Sweden becomes quietly magical – and something your guests are sure to remember.

Top tip: Lucia events are very popular – book in advance if you can.