Expert recommendations of the top events—with tips on how to best experience these celebrations.
|
THIS ARTICLE IS FROM
|
Stockholm Jazz & Blues Festival
Mid-July. One of Sweden’s oldest and most famous festivals; 25th anniversary in 2008. Attracts some of the world’s top musicians. Past performers include Stevie Wonder, B.B. King, Lauryn Hill, and Herbie Hancock. www.stockholmjazz.com
Kulturfestivalen
Mid-August. “Days and days of high-quality entertainment on scenes, streets, and squares. There’s something for even the most picky culture vulture.”—Ann-Charlotte Jönsson, manager of press and information, Stockholm Visitors Board. www.kulturfestivalen.stockholm.se
Lidingöloppet
Late September. For mass physical culture, nothing beats this 18.6-mile (30-kilometer) sweat- and mud-fest. The world’s largest cross-country foot race attracts 30,000-plus runners to the suburb island of Lidingö. Shorter races for kids. Entry fee. www.lidingoloppet.se
Midsummer’s Eve
Late June. In stubborn keeping with a pre-Christian tradition, the longest day of the year is celebrated with a vengeance. If you can, go to the countryside, where the real parties are held.
Crayfish parties
August. Swedes put on silly hats and engage in sing-alongs under the guise of eating crayfish. Some get the horrendously expensive Swedish ones, but most get the regular Chinese or Turkish varieties.
