Walpurgis, or Valborg (short for Valborgsmässoafton), also lovingly referred to as ‘the last of April’, is one of Sweden’s most cherished spring traditions. Originally, it was a way to mark the changing seasons and keep evil spirits at bay – but today, it’s a joyful community celebration. So why do Swedes still gather around bonfires on Valborg? Simply put: to welcome spring. It’s a symbolic farewell to the dark, cold months, and a big, fiery hello to lighter days ahead.
Students embrace it as a preview of summer holidays, while families and friends come together to sing, watch the flames, and enjoy the first true outdoor evening of the year. Expect choral singing, springtime speeches and plenty of people huddling together, slightly shivering – but smiling – in the glow of the bonfire.
You’ll also spot lots of Swedish flags waving – 30 April happens to be the birthday of King Carl XVI Gustaf. And as if one celebration wasn’t enough, it’s followed by May Day, a national public holiday packed with parades and political demonstrations.
Source of information: Sharing Sweden
