We are happy to share the latest Blog by our Member Company Beyondo on Swedish & Dutch Cultural Traditions.
The festive season is a magical time in both Sweden and The Netherlands, but each country has its own unique traditions that make Christmas special. Understanding these customs is crucial for international companies looking to do business during this period. Let’s explore how these two cultures celebrate Christmas and how business is conducted during the festive season.
Swedish Christmas traditions and business practices
In Sweden, Christmas is known as Jul, and the celebrations start early with the Advent. The first Sunday of Advent marks the beginning of the festive season, with families lighting candles and decorating their homes. One of the most beloved traditions is the Advent calendar, where children (and adults) open a door each day to find a small gift or treat.
A highlight of the Swedish Christmas season is Lucia Day on December 13th. This celebration of light features processions led by a girl dressed as Lucia, wearing a crown of candles. She is followed by children dressed in white, singing traditional songs. This event symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness during the long Swedish winter.
Christmas Eve, or Julafton, is the main day of celebration in Sweden. Families gather for a festive meal that includes dishes like Julskinka (Christmas ham), meatballs, and gravlax (cured salmon). After dinner, it’s time for the much-anticipated visit from Jultomten, the Swedish Santa Claus, who delivers gifts to children.
Business practices during Christmas in Sweden
During the Christmas period, business activities in Sweden slow down significantly. Many companies close for an extended break, and employees take time off to spend with their families. It’s important for international companies to plan ahead and avoid scheduling important meetings or expecting quick responses during this time. The emphasis on work-life balance means that Swedes prioritize personal time over work commitments during the holidays. For example, it’s common for businesses to be closed from Christmas Eve through the New Year.
Dutch Christmas traditions and business practices
In The Netherlands, the festive season kicks off with Sinterklaas on December 5th. Sinterklaas, who resembles Santa Claus, arrives from Spain and brings gifts to children. The evening is filled with excitement as kids leave their shoes out, hoping to find them filled with treats the next morning.
Christmas in The Netherlands, known as Kerstmis, is celebrated on both December 25th and 26th. The Dutch enjoy a more relaxed and extended celebration, with Kerstavond (Christmas Eve) being a time for family gatherings and festive meals. Traditional dishes include gourmetten, where families cook small pieces of meat and vegetables on a tabletop grill, and kerststol, a fruit-filled bread.
A unique Dutch tradition is the Christmas markets, which are popular throughout the country. These markets offer a festive atmosphere with stalls selling handmade crafts, delicious food, and warm drinks like glühwein (mulled wine). It’s a wonderful way to get into the holiday spirit and find unique gifts.
Business practices during Christmas in The Netherlands
Similar to Sweden, business activities in The Netherlands also slow down during the Christmas period. However, the Dutch approach is slightly different. While many businesses close for the holidays, there is still some level of activity, especially in the retail and service sectors due to the popularity of Christmas markets. It’s advisable for international companies to avoid scheduling major business activities during this time and to be mindful of the extended celebrations that include both Christmas Day and Boxing Day. Dutch professionals may still be reachable, but responses might be slower as they balance work and festive activities.
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