Nordic Easter Traditions

FiveTraditions that Might Surprise You

Growing up celebrating Easter was all about getting dressed up, going to church, family gatherings, egg hunts, and eating lots of candy. I specifically remember my Scandinavian family dressing up so nice. These traditions are so nostalgic and thinking back to those memories makes me smile. ❤️😀

Easter is all about welcoming spring. To celebrate this change in season there are a few traditions in the Nordic countries that may surprise you.

1. Skiing (downhill and cross country): Many families in the Nordic countries celebrate the spring season by hitting the slopes for one last skiing adventure of the season. This tradition is deeply rooted in the love for outdoor activities and appreciation for nature. Everyone is so grateful to welcome the sun and the light, there’s even an activity called “Solvegg,” which literally means “Sun Egg,” but describes the outdoor wall of a cabin that gets the most direct sunlight. Where you can sit and soak in the sun. ⛷ ☀️

2. Citrus Fruits & Beer: Easter is a time for indulging in delicious treats like citrus fruits and special Easter brews. Oranges and lemons decorate homes, symbolizing Easter and the arrival of spring. The tradition of enjoying citrus fruits during Easter dates back to the 19th century when wealthy Danes would gift oranges as a rare and luxurious treat. Additionally, many breweries release special Easter brews, adding a festive touch to the holiday celebrations. 🍊 🍻

3. Påskekrim (Easter Crime): In Norway, Easter is the perfect time to indulge in crime fiction. Known as Påskekrim, this tradition originated in the 1920s when a Norwegian newspaper published a crime novel series during Easter to boost sales. Today, Norwegians embrace this tradition by curling up with a gripping mystery novel to enjoy during the Easter break. It's a time for relaxation and indulgence, as well as a nod to Norway's literary heritage. 📚

4. Easter Witches: In Finland, children dress up as Easter witches, complete with broomsticks, and go door to door offering handmade Easter cards in exchange for treats. This charming tradition dates back to the 17th century when Finnish children would dress up as witches and visit their neighbors to bless them and wish them a prosperous year ahead. It's a fun and whimsical way to spread joy and celebrate the holiday. 🧙‍♀️🧹🍬

5. Gækkebreve: In Denmark and parts of Norway, the tradition of Gækkebreve involves sending anonymous letters or cards adorned with intricate designs and teasing rhymes. The recipient must guess the sender’s identity, or they owe the sender a chocolate egg on Easter Sunday. This tradition dates back to the 18th century and is believed to bring good luck and happiness to both the sender and recipient.✍️ 😀

As we embrace these unique traditions, it reminds me of the importance of passing them down to future generations. Sharing these meaningful customs with our children helps preserve our cultural heritage and creates cherished memories for years to come.

If you're looking to continue to share stories of Nordic culture and explore these traditions with your family, I invite you to check out my collection of children's books. The books are perfect for introducing little ones to the magic of Nordic traditions and stories.

Wishing you a joyous Easter filled with warmth, love, and the delight of discovery! 💜💛💙