Step Into the Magic of Swedish Christmases Through History

Experience Christmases Through History at Skansen

Inside Skansen’s historic houses and farmsteads, visitors can discover how Christmas was marked in different parts of Sweden during the 19th and 20th centuries. Here, rural traditions meet the customs of the urban middle classes at the turn of the century. Guests are welcome indoors to experience the atmosphere, scents and stories that bring the Christmases of another time vividly to life.

“Meeting visitors in the museum and sharing how Christmas was celebrated in the past is something truly special. Every house carries a story – of traditions, symbols and everyday life. It offers a unique and wonderfully atmospheric opportunity to explore how Christmas has evolved over time,”
says Ingrid Frykmo, Museum Educator at Skansen.

This Year’s Historic Christmas Settings

• The Printer’s Home (1840s): A young couple hosts a Boxing Day gathering, complete with a Christmas tree adorned with wax candles and traditional pretzels.

• Delsbo Farmstead (1850s): Christmas in in the country side, where the children enjoy their very own Christmas table.

• Oktorps Farmstead (1870s): Bread, sausages and rice porridge are served for Christmas Eve on a self-sufficient Halland farm.

• The Post Office (1910s): A quiet, religious home with a coffee table set for Christmas, while postcards are sorted in the small village post office.

• The Farm Labourers Cottage (1920s): A simple yet heartfelt Christmas celebrated by two poor families.

• The Ironmonger’s Home and the Konsum Shop (1930s): An urban, modern Christmas with festive shopping, decorated shop windows, Advent stars and calendars.

A Christmas Linking Past and Present – For All Ages

Christmas at Skansen offers a rich selection of activities and experiences. Here, past and present meet in an environment where children, adults and older visitors can share memories and discoveries across generations.

“Christmas at Skansen is something truly extraordinary – a place of togetherness where several generations come together in a shared experience. We want everyone to feel welcome, whether they seek tradition, new impressions or simply a moment of calm,”
says Liza Carlefred, Head of Programmes and Exhibitions at Skansen.

The traditional Christmas market, with its craft stalls and long-standing artisan traditions, attracts thousands of visitors. Across the grounds, festive ambience fills the air with open fires and winter decorations. Lucia celebrations, Christmas songs and concerts brighten December days, while Skansen’s winter-active animals offer learning opportunities for both children and adults. In the restaurants and cafés, seasonal flavours are served – from mulled wine and gingerbread biscuits to traditional Swedish Christmas buffets.

Practical Information

Christmas at Skansen runs from 28 November to 6 January.

The visit is included in the day ticket and annual pass. Since October, Skansen has offered free admission for all children up to 15 years, part of a long-term initiative to increase accessibility, learning and cultural experiences for more people.