Origin & history
Easter Sunday, or Påskdagen, has been celebrated in Sweden since the Christianization of the country around the 11th century. The holiday replaced older Germanic spring festivals honoring the goddess Eostre, symbolizing rebirth and fertility. Over time, the Christian narrative of Jesus' resurrection merged with local pagan customs, creating a unique Swedish Easter tradition.
Customs & traditions
Swedes celebrate Easter Sunday with a festive meal featuring pickled herring, salmon, eggs, and lamb. Children dress up as 'påskkärringar' (Easter witches) and go door-to-door for treats, a tradition dating back to the 17th century. Homes are decorated with birch twigs and colorful feathers, symbolizing spring. Many families attend church services, and egg decorating and egg hunts are popular activities.
Why it is celebrated
Easter Sunday is the culmination of Holy Week and the most important Christian holiday in Sweden, celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ. It is a time for spiritual reflection and family reunion, emphasizing themes of hope, renewal, and the victory of life over death.