By Harry Pape
As I settle back into the rhythm of university life in Leicester, I can’t help but reflect on the unforgettable year I spent studying at Stockholm University. My time there gave me an invaluable opportunity to experience not just the academic culture of Sweden but also the magic of a Scandinavian Christmas. Now that I’m back in the UK, the festive season feels like the perfect time to share some of those memories.
If you’ve ever heard tales of Sweden’s long, dark winters, let me confirm: they are entirely true. By mid-December, Stockholm only gets about six hours of daylight, and even that feels muted under heavy, snow-laden skies. At first, the darkness felt oppressive, a stark contrast to the more temperate winters back in Leicester. But slowly, I learned to embrace the Swedish way of life: turning to light, warmth, and tradition as a remedy for the doom and gloom.
The city comes alive in winter, its streets glowing with countless strings of fairy lights and warm lanterns. Every window in Stockholm seems to display an advent star or a candelabra, creating a collective glow that feels like a warm hug against the cold. This simple yet striking tradition captured my heart – it felt like the city had conspired to combat the long nights with shared beauty and optimism.
While Leicester winters often mean damp pavements and drizzle, Stockholm’s are the stuff of fairytales. Thick snow blankets the city, softening the harsh edges of the modern buildings and turning its mediaeval old town, Gamla Stan, into something out of a storybook. The Baltic Sea freezes, allowing the locals to grab their skates and skis to participate in some seasonal fun.
Wandering the cobbled streets of Gamla Stan during Christmas felt surreal. I was constantly distracted by the sight of snowflakes twirling in the air and the sound of my boots crunching through fresh snow. The Christmas markets are among the oldest in Europe, and they are a feast for the senses. Imagine the smell of mulled wine (or glögg, as the Swedes call it) mingling with the scent of freshly baked gingerbread cookies. Stalls overflow with handmade crafts, woollen scarves, and carved wooden toys. I spent hours browsing for gifts and letting the festive atmosphere wash over me.
Now that I’m back in Leicester, Christmas feels a little different. I miss the crisp chill of Stockholm’s winter air, the soft crunch of snow underfoot, and the comforting glow of festive lights in every window. While our Midlands winter has its own charm, there’s nothing quite like a Stockholm Christmas – a city that transforms the darkest season into something magical.
I’ve found myself sharing stories of Sweden’s snowy streets and festive traditions with friends who are curious about what it’s like to experience Christmas there. The Swedes’ ability to create warmth and cosiness even during the darkest, coldest days has left a lasting impression on me.
If you ever get the chance to visit Stockholm during the holidays, take it. The snow-covered streets, glowing lights, and festive cheer create a warmth that stays with you long after you leave. For me, those memories remain a reminder of how light and tradition can brighten even the coldest, darkest days.
Photo by Pham Ngoc Anh on Pexels.com
