Skansen open-air museum

Valborg at Skansen: Sweden’s iconic spring celebration in the heart of Stockholm

13.4.2026 08:00:00 CEST | Skansen open-air museum | Pressmeddelande

Dela

On April 30, Skansen in Stockholm invites guests to experience one of Sweden’s most cherished traditions – the Walpurgis Night celebration, known locally as Valborg. Set against the scenic backdrop of the Swedish capital, the evening culminates in the lighting of a large ceremonial bonfire, accompanied by choral singing, live music, and spring speeches.

Skansens folk dancers light the big bonfire.
Walpurgis at Skansen in Stockholm, Sweden’s iconic celebration of spring. Anna Hugosson

Walpurgis marks the arrival of spring and has been celebrated in Sweden for generations. At Skansen, the tradition is brought to life through a vibrant programme of choral singing, live music, and ceremonial speeches, featuring acclaimed Swedish singer Sarah Klang, renowned choir Stockholms Studentsångare, and spring addresses delivered by actor and drag artist Robert Fux, leading up to the lighting of the bonfire.

As dusk falls, guests gather around the fire, a longstanding symbol of renewal and the changing of seasons. Historically lit to ward off evil spirits, the bonfire remains at the heart of the celebration. Throughout the evening, guests can also experience elements of Swedish folk culture, including traditional music and dance, creating an atmosphere that blends heritage with contemporary celebration.

Located on the island of Djurgården, Skansen – the world’s oldest open-air museum – offers a uniquely authentic setting for Walpurgis. With panoramic views over Stockholm, the event provides both locals and international visitors with an opportunity to take part in a living cultural tradition.

Walpurgis has been celebrated at Skansen since 1892. Rooted in traditions dating back to the Middle Ages, the celebration marks the arrival of spring. 

Practical information 

Date: April 30 

This year’s celebrations begin with Children’s Walpurgis and an early bonfire between 17:00 and 18:00. The main Walpurgis programme takes place from 20:30 to 22:00, with the large ceremonial bonfire lit at 21:00. 

Walpurgis celebrations are included in Skansen’s regular admission ticket and annual pass. Admission is free for all children up to the age of 15. 

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Skansens folk dancers light the big bonfire.
Walpurgis at Skansen in Stockholm, Sweden’s iconic celebration of spring.
Anna Hugosson
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Valborg at Skansen in Stockholm.
Valborg at Skansen in Stockholm.
Anna Hugosson
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About Skansen

The Skansen Foundation is an open-air museum, a zoo, and a vibrant meeting place for celebrations, events and shared experiences – all set in a truly unique environment in the heart of Stockholm. Here, Swedish culture, nature and wildlife come together in settings designed to be explored time and time again. Each year, Skansen welcomes around 1.4 million visitors of all ages from Sweden and around the world.

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