Public and Bank Holidays in Sweden 2024

Sweden sprinkles its calendar with public holidays throughout the year, offering delightful respites and opportunities to delve into Swedish culture. From commemorating historical milestones to cherished traditions, these holidays paint the year with vibrancy. In 2024, several public holidays fall on weekdays, creating extended weekends ideal for exploring Sweden’s picturesque archipelagos, charming cities, and dramatic landscapes.

Let’s raise a toast to the upcoming Swedish public holidays in 2024:

• January 1st – New Year’s Day (Nyårsdagen): Ushering in the new year, this national holiday is a time for celebrations and reflection. Expect most businesses to be closed.

• January 6th – Epiphany (Trettondedag jul): Marking the end of the twelve days of Christmas, this day is traditionally celebrated with festive treats.

• March 29th – Good Friday (Långfredagen): A solemn Christian holy day commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. Many shops may have adjusted hours.

• March 31st – Easter Sunday (Påskdagen): The heart of Easter celebrations, this religious holiday is observed with church services and family gatherings.

• April 1st – Easter Monday (Annandag påsk): A continuation of Easter festivities, this public holiday is a time for relaxation and spending time with loved ones.

• May 1st – May Day (Första maj): International Workers’ Day, celebrated with parades and demonstrations for workers’ rights.

• May 9th – Ascension Day (Kristi himmelsfärdsdag): A religious holiday commemorating Jesus’ ascension into heaven.

• May 19th – Whit Sunday (Pingstdagen): Celebrating the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the Apostles, this Christian holiday marks the end of the Easter season.

• June 6th – Swedish National Day (Sveriges nationaldag): A day of national pride filled with parades, music, and festivities.

• June 21st – Midsummer Eve (Midsommarafton): A vibrant celebration marking the summer solstice, with bonfires, traditional dances, and flower crowns.

• June 22nd – Midsummer Day (Midsommardagen): A continuation of Midsummer festivities, with picnics, outdoor games, and enjoying the long summer days.

• November 2nd – All Saints’ Day (Alla helgons dag): A day to remember and honor loved ones who have passed away. Families visit cemeteries and light candles.

• December 24th – Christmas Eve (Julafton): A cherished family holiday filled with gift-giving, traditional meals, and attending church services. Expect most businesses to close early.

• December 25th – Christmas Day (Juldagen): A major Christian holiday for family gatherings and enjoying Christmas feasts.

• December 26th – Boxing Day (Annandag jul): A day for relaxation after Christmas festivities.

Worth Noting: While this list covers all Swedish public holidays in 2024, some shops, especially in tourist areas, might have adjusted hours on certain holidays. It’s always recommended to check opening times in advance, particularly for museums and shops.

So, pack your bags, embrace the spirit of celebration, and explore the magic of Sweden throughout 2024!