Skansen open-air museum

Beginning on Friday, 28 November, Skansen in Stockholm, Sweden invites visitors to a Christmas celebration steeped in history, atmosphere and tradition. At the world’s oldest open-air museum, memories of Christmases past are brought to life – from festive dishes and historical tree decorations to the crackle of classic Christmas records on the gramophone, offering a unique insight into how the season was celebrated across different social classes and eras.

Set on Djurgården island in central Stockholm, Sweden, the iconic open-air museum Skansen invites guests to an atmospheric celebration of Saint Lucia on 13 and 14 December. Concerts are held in historical settings and feature performances by well-regarded Swedish choirs, offering unique perspectives on the Lucia tradition.

In December, the iconic open-air museum Skansen offers an immersive holiday experience unlike any other – where snow-dusted landscapes, glowing lanterns, and the scent of mulled wine meet centuries of Swedish tradition. Set on Djurgården in central Stockholm, Skansen invites guests from around the world to step into a living heritage of Swedish Christmas celebrations.

Skansen – the renowned open-air museum and cultural attraction in the heart of Stockholm – will offer free entry for children between the ages of 0 and 15. The decision takes effect on 7 October 2025 and marks a commitment to increasing accessibility and upholding every child’s right to culture.

Skansen introduces a Christmas buffet as part of a broader strategic initiative to enhance the park’s food and beverage experiences. Under the direction of renowned restaurateur KC Wallberg, the concept offers a complete gastronomic journey that combines traditional Swedish ingredients and food culture with culinary craftsmanship – tailored for both small and large gatherings.

Experience a classic Swedish midsummer in the heart of Stockholm. For three joyful days, Skansen invites guests to celebrate one of Sweden’s most beloved traditions – with music, dancing, folklore and activities from morning until late into the bright summer night.

On 6 June, Skansen invites guests to a grand celebration of Sweden’s National Day, offering a full day of activities for all ages, live music and a vibrant market. The festivities culminate in an evening concert on the Solliden stage, graced by royal presence and performances by some of Sweden’s most beloved artists.

On April 30th, Stockholm's iconic open-air museum Skansen invites international guests to partake in the cherished Swedish celebration of Walpurgis Night. Hosted at Skansen since 1892, the event offers an immersive evening of tradition, music and cultural heritage in a setting that bridges past and present – crowned by panoramic views of the Swedish capital.

Skansen invites guests to experience Easter the Swedish way – with traditional crafts, music, folklore and festive activities for all ages. Set in Stockholm’s open-air museum and zoo, the Easter program brings to life customs from Sweden’s past while offering hands-on activities and storytelling that delight modern-day families.

On June 6th, Sweden's National Day, a grand celebration takes place at Skansen. During the day, there will be festivities for the whole family, including a walking orchestra, flag crafting, folk dance performances, and much more. In the evening, the traditional celebration will be held at the Solliden stage with music and speeches dedicated to Sweden in the presence of the royal family.

Walpurgis Eve is approaching, and we invite you to celebrate this traditional holiday at Skansen. On April 30th, join us for a festive gathering to welcome spring and bid farewell to winter with the ancient custom of gathering around the Walpurgis bonfire.

On March 28th, this year's Easter at the world’s oldest open-air museum, Skansen in Stockholm, begins. A tradition-filled adventure for all ages. Travel back in time and experience how Easter has been celebrated in the past, attend a spring concert, listen to tales of witches and magical beings, make your own broomstick or try Ukrainian egg painting.

Next Friday Skansen will close it´s entrances for the first time since opening in 1891. That also means that Christmas at Skansen is cancelled. Due to Swedish Prime Minister Stefan Löfven's press conference and clear message earlier this week, "Cancel everything", Skansen sees no other option than to close down operations completely. This is to take responsibility in accordance with the new guidelines where all persons are encouraged to take individual action and not be around more than eight people, within the family.

The week after Easter five brown bearcubs was allowed to leave the den under the watchful eye of bear mum Lill-Babs. An arrival of bearcubs is a sign of spring apporoaching in Stockholm. It happens only every third year but this time it was a record number. Never before has a bear at Skansen given birth to five cubs in one litter.

Christmas at Skansen is more than a month of events and celebrations - from the opening up of the first Christmas market until the fireworks at New Year´s Eve. This year the first market is held on the weekends of advent with opening hours from 10 am to 4 pm.