5 Swedish Traditions to Embrace This Christmas with Ikea

We recently had to do some research into Swedish Christmas traditions as we had been asked to design the Ikea Christmas showcase. We have loved discovering about the culinary dishes and the home decorating touches that the Swedes take pride in.

Sweden offers some of the most charming and "unique" customs that make the holiday season truly special. Whether you want to add a touch of Scandinavian magic to your celebrations or simply learn about different ways people celebrate Christmas, these five Swedish traditions will inspire you.

We got be guest panelist at the talk higgee Christmas traditions hosted by Reena Simon, we also discussed the fascinating design process of a Christmas items with product developper Elena Leonova.

1. St. Lucia Day Lights the Way

On December 13th, Swedes celebrate St. Lucia Day, a festival of light that brightens the darkest time of the year. The tradition honors St. Lucia, a young woman who brought food and aid to Christians hiding in the catacombs, lighting her way with a wreath of candles on her head.

Today, children dress in white robes with red sashes, and one girl is chosen to be Lucia, wearing a crown of candles. They sing traditional songs and bring saffron buns called lussekatter to family and friends. This celebration symbolizes hope and the promise of longer days ahead.

Bringing St. Lucia Day into your home can be as simple as lighting candles early in December and sharing saffron buns with loved ones. It’s a beautiful way to welcome light during the dark winter.

2. The Swedish Christmas Smorgasbord

The julbord is Sweden’s famous Christmas buffet, a feast that gathers family and friends around a table filled with traditional dishes. This spread includes:

• Pickled herring in various sauces

• Cold-smoked salmon

• Meatballs and sausages

• Jansson’s Temptation (a creamy potato and anchovy casserole)

• Christmas ham glazed with mustard and breadcrumbs

• Crispbread and cheese

  
  

Each dish has a story and a place on the table, making the meal a celebration of Swedish culinary heritage. The julbord is not just about food; it’s about sharing time and stories with those you care about.

If you want to try this tradition, start by preparing a few classic dishes or visiting a Swedish restaurant during the holidays. The variety and flavors will surprise and delight you.

And why not go all out with table decorating for your julbord, much like we created here for the show :-)

3. The Yule Goat Brings Festive Spirit

The Julbock, or Yule Goat, is one of Sweden’s oldest Christmas symbols. Traditionally made from straw and tied with red ribbons, the goat appears in decorations and folklore. It is said to protect the home and bring good luck for the coming year.

In some towns, people dress as the Yule Goat and go door to door, singing and spreading holiday cheer. The largest straw Yule Goat is built every year in Gävle, though it often faces the challenge of being burned down by pranksters, which has become a quirky part of the tradition.

Adding a small straw goat to your decorations can bring a touch of Swedish charm and a reminder of the festive spirit that connects communities.

A contemporary adaptation spotted in the newest Ikea Xmas range

4. Dress your windows to connect with neighbours

Advent is a special time in Sweden, marked by lighting candles each Sunday leading up to Christmas. Many Swedish homes display an Advent candle holder with four candles in their window, one for each Sunday. Lighting these candles creates a cozy atmosphere and builds anticipation for Christmas Day. You can create your own Advent tradition by setting up a candle holder and lighting a candle each Sunday. It’s a peaceful way to connect with the season and your loved ones.

Additionally it is the tradition of hanging Julstjärna (Christmas stars) in windows, it begins on the first Sunday of Advent to symbolise the Star of Bethlehem. These paper or metal stars, often hung alongside electric candle holders, brighten the dark Nordic winter, signaling the start of the holiday season and welcoming neighbours.

These simple ritual encourages families to pause and reflect during the busy holiday season. It’s common to enjoy a cup of glögg (Swedish mulled wine) and gingerbread cookies while sitting by the candlelight.

5. Watching Donald Duck on Christmas Eve

We thought we would end the post with this really quirky and most surprising Swedish Christmas traditions is the annual broadcast of Kalle Anka och hans vänner önskar God Jul (Donald Duck and His Friends Wish You a Merry Christmas). Every Christmas Eve at 3 PM, families gather in front of the TV to watch this classic Disney special.

This tradition started in the 1960s and has become a beloved part of Swedish Christmas. The show features a mix of Disney cartoons and has a nostalgic feel that brings generations together.

Even if you don’t speak Swedish, watching a holiday special with family can be a fun way to create your own Christmas ritual. It shows how simple moments can become meaningful traditions.

Swedish Christmas traditions offer a blend of light, food, and community that can enrich any holiday celebration. From the glowing candles of St. Lucia Day to the joyful feast of the julbord, these customs invite you to slow down and enjoy the season’s simple pleasures. Whether you adopt one tradition or all five, embracing these Swedish ways can bring warmth and wonder to your Christmas.

Find all Christmas products featured in the Ikea Show we designed by searching VINTERFINT on their website.