Today we celebrate the holiday of Valborg in Sweden. (It’s also the King’s birthday, which is why, if you live in Sweden, you might notice buses proudly flying flags as they cruise through the city.)
Valborg, or Walpurgis Night if you’re feeling fancy, is Sweden’s way of collectively saying, “We are SO DONE with winter.” We burn away dead branches and celebrate the arrival of spring. Though, to be honest, spring in Sweden usually means it’s slightly less cold and we won’t have snow every day – maybe just a few more here and there. In some neighborhoods, Valborg also doubles as “Finally Getting Rid of the Christmas Trees” Day. Multitasking!
Another Holiday Involving Witches
Originally, Valborg had a more mystical purpose: scaring away witches and evil spirits. (Seriously, has anyone else noticed how many Swedish holidays involve witches? After Easter, I’m starting to see a trend here.) Large bonfires were thought to scare off witches and evil spirits. So while it’s no longer thought of as a holiday to scare off evil, we continue to light huge bonfires. And when you think about it, how much has changed really, because after darkness for about 6 month, I would say winter in Sweden can be pretty evil.
Freezing for the Festivities
If you think this sounds warm and spring-like, think again. Valborg is almost always cold. I’ve yet to attend a Valborg celebration where I didn’t end up shivering, occasionally dodging raindrops. But Swedes are determined. After all, what if there’s something to this spring superstition? There’s no way we’re risking more winter. So we bundle up, stand around the fire, and if we’re at a more traditional event, we get to listen to some traditional folk songs about spring.
And then there’s me. I’m trying to make my way toward the fire just to warm up while wishing I had a long stick and a bag of marshmallows.
Why You Should Celebrate Valborg
Despite the cold, there’s something undeniably entertaining about Valborg. It’s not just the bonfires or the songs, but the shared experience of freezing together while pretending it’s spring. The crowds gather, the flames crackle, and Swedes collectively prove their ability to celebrate even when nature refuses to cooperate.
My advice would be to locate your nearest neighborhood celebration and grab your thickest jacket. Then head on over to the bonfire and embrace the chaos. Whether you’re singing, shivering, or just there to witness the annual torching of a questionable pile of branches, Valborg is a Swedish tradition that’s equal parts bizarre and brilliant.
Oh, but don’t wear anything flammable.