Walpurgis Eve – April 30

Stockholm guide | Sztokholm praktycznie | Stockholm like a local

The Walpurgis Eve (Valborg) represents one special evening in Sweden and a de facto half holiday celebrated on the April 30.

Traditionally the Walpurgis night was a feast through which the Swedes welcomed the spring and kept away the evil spirits. The tradition goes back to the previous centuries.

On the Walpurgis evening people get together around a large bonfire in every village across the country. There will be choir singing and later in the night even fireworks in some places. The day is especially celebrated in student towns like Uppsala or Lund.

You can experience a true Walpurgis Night in Stockholm by visiting Skansen. More information about it here. Or, why not, visit the Uppsala Universty and its famous celebrations. More information about their plans can be found here.

The same day Sweden celebrates the birthday of Carl XVI Gustaf. This year the event is especially important because the Swedish King is turning 70. There is a full day for the King and you can keep track of his schedule here, and who knows, maybe you get to meet him.

Also, the Labor Day is celebrated on the 1st of May and often the party started on the Walpurgis Night continues the next day through public gatherings or parades.

So be ready for a weekend full of events and join the Swedes in welcoming the spring!

Photo:Renata@stoRy touRs