swedish national day

A UK Traveler’s Guide To Celebrate Swedish National Day in Stockholm 2025

May 9, 2025

Every Country celebrates a Day that represents their patriotism and love towards their Nation, and on 6 June of each year, Sweden celebrates Swedish National Day – A day when everyone can be seen in two-color clothes with a smiling and proud face to be a part of their country.  

Or if you’re planning a trip to Sweden, then this summer is the best time to enjoy your holidays with the Swedes, to know more about Sweden traditions, what they do, wear, and eat on this National Day. But if you are visiting from the UK, then having a Swedish tourist visa is only a gateway to attend this big day in the country. 

This guide will cover everything about the National Swedish Day, so keep reading. Know Everything About a 500-Year-Old Swedish National Day in Stockholm.

What is the history of Swedish National Day?

According to historical data the Artur Hazelius, founder of the Skansen open-air Museum, wanted to establish an annual day to put aside as a day for the nation to care only. So he chose the date June 6th.

But coincidentally, it was the day in 1523, Gustav Vasa was elected as the king of Sweden. And after a 23-year-long wait in 1983, this day was accepted as a national day and named as Swedish National Day. So this year, the Swedes are going to celebrate the 600th anniversary of the Nation.

What do Swedes wear on this day?

The Swedes wear a coloured dress matching the Swedish Flag to show their patriotism on Swedish National Day. And the male or the soldier wears the coat pent with the summer flower in the pocket.

Where do they celebrate the day? 

The Swedes celebrate this day with excitement and pride at the open-air museum  Skansen, in the presence of the royal family in traditional attire. They raise the flag, and throughout the day, the Skansen organizes many family and food activities. 

Also Check: How to Fill the Sweden Schengen Visa Application Form

How do Swedes celebrate Swedish National Day?  

1. Flag-Waving and Speeches

On this day, the Swedes raise the Swedish flag on public buildings, homes, and even buses with pride. At places like Official ceremonies, your ears will be greeted by speeches from politicians and even the Royal Family on Swedish National Day.

2. Free Entry to Museums

Many cultural places, including Stockholm’s iconic Skansen open-air museum, offer free Entry on Swedish National Day. And this makes it the perfect time for tourists to explore Swedish history and traditions.

3. Folk Music and Traditional Costumes

In places like Skansen, you’ll notice the Swedes dressed in folk costumes, performing traditional dances, and playing beautiful fiddle music. It’s one of the few times that you’ll see the mystical Mother Svea (the female personification of Sweden) celebrated in various cultural events. 

And this is how Swedes celebrate Swedish National Day in Stockholm.

The whole day programme and events with time: 

**** Note – So, if you are planning to attend the National Day of Sweden, then apply fast, because the celebration day is coming up. Many UK travelers attend this National day, so, due to high demand, you may not get the appointment slots on time, so apply on SWEDEN VISAS to get the Sweden visa appointment without any delay, and with the assistance from the visa expert, do the documentation process hurdle free and quick for getting a Sweden Visa.**** 

What is the Best time to visit Sweden? Summer! Winter! Spring! Autumn

If you are planning a trip to Sweden and have the same question in your mind, what is the best time to visit Sweden? The answer is the Summer season ( June to August ). Because, during these months, the weather is warm and pleasant, there are a lot of outdoor activities to enjoy, like exploring the nearby islands or strolling through the charming villages.

Upcoming Events of Sweden in Summer 2025

There are a total of 13 Sweden public holidays in the year. Starting from January New Year’s Day to end with St Stephen’s Day and Boxing Day in December. Here are some upcoming Sweden events that can be attended. 

  • Swedish National Day6th June, 2025
  • Stockholm Marathon – Starting in June
  • Midsummer Festival20–22 June, 2025
  • Way Out West Festival (Gothenburg) – August
  • Cultural Night Stockholm – August/September

Also Check: Summer Festivals in Sweden

What are some best things to do in Sweden, while attending the National Day?

If you are planning a complete week in Sweden in summer for the first time, including the Swedish National Day, and are confused that, more what to do in Sweden to make this trip more memorable, here are some things that you can do in Sweden.  

  1. Excellent view of the city from City Hall:   

With a height of 106 meters, this tower provides you with a beautiful and panoramic view of Stockholm.  

Opening hours are 08:00 AM – 04:30 PM  

Monday to Friday with a  €7.61 – €13.7.  

  1. A boat tour of the city: 

If you want to explore or admire Stockholm differently and have a good budget, then you can do a boat tour from the city’s 14 islands. A Swedish visa from the UK will open this gateway for you to plan a journey on these waterways. 

  1. Experience ABBA The Museum: 

If you want to do something different, then visit the ABBA museum, where you can sing along, dance with the pop group. 

interesting facts of swedish national day

Some interesting facts about the Swedish National Day and Stockholm

  • The Swedish National Day wasn’t always a Holiday, it was first declared a national holiday in 2005.  
  • The Royal Family, King Carl XVI Gustaf, hands out flags to new Swedish citizens at a ceremony in Skansen. 
  • Unlike other countries’ festivals with fireworks or parade celebrations, Sweden’s celebration is more peaceful and reflective, and that’s why it’s the “Quietest” National Day
  • Stockholm is known as the Venice of the North because this city is built on 14 islands.
  • Stockholm is one of the cleanest capitals in the world, and in 2010 it was named the green capital of Europe.    

Get the Best Food Experience in Stockholm 

So, you are going to attend the Swedish National Day of Sweden as a first-time visitor and have planned a full week to explore this city, and want to know more about their Brunch, Lunch, and Dinner to get the best experience of Swedish Food, then here are some foods you can try.  

  • Kottbullar – This is the national dish of the country. Meatballs served with mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and gravy are an unbeatable match of the food in Sweden.   
  • Smörgåstårta – A dish that is mostly eaten at a gathering, and is famous among the Swedes. 

Budget for Accommodation, Transportation, and Food while getting around the city

As a first-time traveler, you should first draw up your budget according to your plans, because Stockholm is an expensive city, and during the Swedish National Day, it becomes more costly.

Transportation: 

Bicycle Rental€23 – €70+ Per Day ( The rent varies according to the type or brand of the Bike)

Train The starting cost will be €55 –  €90+  Per Day ( The prices vary according to the distance and the train type)

Hire a Taxi/Car – A one-day or 24-hour car rental price will range between €50 –  €200+ (The same as the bicycle, the prices vary according to the model or size of the car, including the road tax, current fuel price)

Food and Drinks:

Mid-Range Restaurants:  75.23 – 112.84 Per Person 

High End Restaurants: €150 – €376.14 Per Person

Coffee Cup and a plate of Kottbular: €1.17 – €1.56 and €4.51- €7.60 

Tips: These prices are not fixed and can vary according to the services of the hotel and your order.

Accommodation:  

Luxury Hotel: Starts from  193 and …+

4 Star Hotel:   75.23 –  150+ 

Budget-Friendly Hotels:  €37.50 – €75+

Tips: These prices are not fixed; they can vary depending on the season, demand, or the amenities provided by the hotel.  

Also Check: Sweden Visa Guide

Conclusion 

So, in conclusion, from the cultural immersion at Skansen museum to get the best panoramic view of the city from a boat tour, attending the Swedish National Day in 2025 offers UK travellers a unique chance to admire Sweden at its most authentic and traditional form. 

Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an art enthusiast, Sweden invites you with plenty of Islands and the tasty Kottbullar.

So, UK traveler, ready to attend the Swedish National Day? Start your planning now—book your flights, get your Sweden visa from London because you should have it, and mark June 6th on your travel calendar. 

Happy Journey…!

FAQ’s

What is Sweden’s National Day?

Sweden’s National Day is their patriotic day, which is celebrated as the day in 1523 when Gustav Vasa was elected as king.

On which day do Swedes celebrate their National Day?

On 6 June the the Swedish National Day is celebrated annually.

Do you need a Visa to travel to Sweden?

Yes, as a UK resident, you need a Swedish visa to travel to Sweden.

Where can you apply for a Swedish visa?

At SWEDEN VISAS, a reliable visa agency with 24/7 assistance and a smooth and quick visa process, apply for a Sweden Visa.

What is the nickname of the Stockholms?

Stockholm is known as the “Venice of the North” too, because of the 14 islands.

How do the Swedes celebrate their National Day?

Decorating the flags, wearing the traditional attire, attending the Walking Orchestra, and enjoying the old-fashioned games, Swedes celebrate their National Day.

Tell a fact about Stockholm?

Stockholm is one of the cleanest capitals in the world, and in 2010, it was named the green capital of Europe.

What are some best things to do in Stockholm?

1. A boat tour
2. A view of the city from the City Hall Museum
3. Experience ABBA The Museum with the pop group 
4. Visit Skansen open-air museum

What is the overall budget of a single person per day in Stockholm?

In a mid-range, €61- €113 is the overall budget for a single person per day.