New Year's Eve

New Year's Eve, known as "Nyårsafton" in Sweden, is a festive and joyous occasion celebrated on December 31st to mark the end of the year and welcome the new one. Swedes typically gather with family and friends to enjoy a special dinner, often featuring traditional dishes like pickled herring, gravlax (cured salmon), and Janssons frestelse (a creamy potato casserole). As midnight approaches, many people tune in to watch the annual televised countdown, which often includes performances and fireworks displays. At the stroke of midnight, fireworks light up the skies across the country, and people toast with champagne or sparkling cider, wishing each other "Gott Nytt År!" (Happy New Year!). In addition to private celebrations, public events such as concerts, parties, and outdoor gatherings are common in cities like Stockholm and Gothenburg. The holiday is a time for reflection, gratitude, and looking forward to new beginnings, making it one of the most cherished celebrations in Sweden.