New Year's Eve in Sweden (Nyårsafton)

History and Traditions:

• Ancient Origins: New Year's celebrations date back to pagan times, with feasts marking the end of the darkest period of the year and the beginning of longer days.
• Gregorian Calendar: Like many Western countries, Sweden adopted the Gregorian calendar in the 18th century, which set January 1st as the start of the new year.
• Tennyson’s Poem: The tradition of singing "Ring Out, Wild Bells," a poem by Alfred Lord Tennyson set to music, is a uniquely Swedish reflection during New Year's Eve.

Modern Celebrations:

• Skansen: Since 1895, Swedes have gathered at Skansen open-air museum in Stockholm for a live televised event where Tennyson's poem is read out loud just before midnight.
• Fireworks: The night sky is lit with fireworks as a communal expression of joy and hope for the new year.
• Private Parties: Swedes often host or attend private parties with family and friends where they enjoy traditional food and drinks like herring, salmon, meatballs, and sparkling wine or champagne.
• Public Gatherings: In larger cities like Stockholm, Gothenburg, and Malmö, public gatherings with concerts and fireworks displays attract crowds despite the cold weather.

Customs:

• Dinner & Speeches: A festive dinner is followed by speeches reflecting on the past year and toasting to the future.
• Twelve Grapes: Some Swedes may have adopted the Spanish custom of eating twelve grapes at midnight for good luck in each month of the coming year.
• New Year Resolutions: Making resolutions for self-improvement or goal setting for the forthcoming year is a common practice.

Television & Radio:

• Dinner for One: Watching "Grevinnan och betjänten" ("The Countess and The Butler"), known internationally as "Dinner for One", is a television tradition that humorously signifies saying goodbye to the old year.
• King's Speech: The King of Sweden traditionally delivers a New Year's speech which is broadcast on TV and radio.

New Year's Eve in Sweden blends historical customs with modern festivities to celebrate reflection, renewal, and hope.