Blog | Swedish Culture

Jessica Tovesson Jessica Tovesson

The beautiful Stockholm archipelago

The Stockholm Archipelago is one of my absolute favorite places to visit in Sweden. Learn more about this unique place in my latest blog!

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Swedish wine? Absolutely!

Did you know that Sweden has a small but growing community of wine producers? Read my latest blog to learn more about Swedish wines and their history.

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Jessica Tovesson Jessica Tovesson

Jenny Lind- the Swedish Nightingale

Did you know that one of the most internationally known singers of the 19th century was born in Stockholm, Sweden? Jenny Lind toured Europe and America during her successful career, and was known for her commitment to philanthropy.

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Jessica Tovesson Jessica Tovesson

Assembly IS required - the story of IKEA

Did you know that the Swedish company IKEA is one of the largest furniture retailers in the world? In my latest blog I tell the story of IKEA and its eccentric founder Ivar Kamprad.

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Jessica Tovesson Jessica Tovesson

Lena Olin - an extraordinarily talented actress

Did you know that Swedish actress Lena Olin worked with legendary director Ingmar Bergman in her first movie? She went on to have an amazing career in Sweden and the U.S. I had the honor of meeting her at the premier of her latest movie, Hilma.

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Jessica Tovesson Jessica Tovesson

Waffle day in Sweden

Waffle Day is celebrated in Sweden every year on March 25th. Everyone has a certain way they like to eat this tasty sweet, but the most common toppings are whipped cream and strawberry jam. You can read more about Swedish waffle day traditions in my latest blog.

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Swedish immigration to Chicago

Did you know that Chicago once had the largest concentration of Swedes outside of Sweden? Read about Swedish immigrants to Chicago in my latest blog!

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The great Swedish adventure

A popular Swedish reality show has a group of Swedish-Americans traveling to Sweden and competing for a big family reunion. It is an interesting mix of education, heart warming reunions, and colliding cultures.

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Jessica Tovesson Jessica Tovesson

Best Wishes for 2023!

It has been another interesting year, and in my latest blog I reflect on some of the events of 2022. Best wishes for a happy, healthy and prosperous 2023!

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Jessica Tovesson Jessica Tovesson

Lucia celebration in Sweden

December 13 is Saint Lucia Day, a popular tradition that is part of Christmas celebrations in Sweden. A choir dressed in white gowns holding candles performs traditional songs in the early morning, bringing light to the dark Scandinavian winter. And the audience is treated to saffron buns and ginger snaps!

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Jessica Tovesson Jessica Tovesson

Alfred Nobel and his legacy

Did you know that Alfred Nobel was inspired to established his famous prize when several newspapers mistakenly published his obituary while he was still very much alive? Horrified by what he read, Nobel decided that he wanted to leave a better legacy behind. In my latest blog you can read more about his fascinating life and the prize that bears his name.

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Jessica Tovesson Jessica Tovesson

Vikings - the people behind the myth

Did you know that October 9 is Leif Erikson Day? In my latest blog I discuss the history of the Vikings, their traditions and travels outside of Scandinavia.

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Jessica Tovesson Jessica Tovesson

Happy Cinnamon Bun Day!

October 4 is Cinnamon Bun Day! The Swedish variety of this delicious treat is well worth a try and also lets you experience fika, the traditional Swedish coffee break with sweets and friendly conversation.

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Jessica Tovesson Jessica Tovesson

Crayfish party - a fun Swedish summer tradition

Did you know that crayfish is hugely popular in Sweden? In early August you can join a crayfish party to eat this delicacy with all the traditional fixings, sing songs and drink nubbe (schnapps)!

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Jessica Tovesson Jessica Tovesson

Summer vacation in Sweden

Did you know that workers in Sweden get a minimum of 5 week paid vacation, and often more? In my latest blog I talk about popular ways to spend summer vacation in Sweden, and provide suggestions for ways to explore the county.

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Jessica Tovesson Jessica Tovesson

Midsummer - an exotic holiday celebration in Sweden

Did you know that Midsummer is one of the most popular holidays in Sweden? It is a time for dancing, singing, traditional food and games. In my latest blog you will learn about its history and traditions around this special day.

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