In Sweden, the biggest event is Christmas Eve (December 24th).
Swedish families gather at their parents' homes, enveloped in warm light, spending the most important "family time" of the year.

Upon arriving at my husband's family home, the sweet scent of gingerbread and the spicy aroma of mulled wine (Glögg) wafted through the air, accompanied by a large Christmas tree made from tall real fir trees and houseplants.
The house was filled with warmth.

Although many Swedes are non-religious, Christmas is deeply rooted as a "family event,"
and like New Year's in Japan, it's common for people living far away to return home.

Christmas Eve in Sweden Begins with "Disney at 3 PM"

The first tradition on Christmas Eve is watching Disney short animated films broadcast on the national channel STV1 at 3 PM.

This tradition has continued since 1960 and for Swedes, it's a "sign that the end of the year is near."
The time when the whole family gathers in front of the TV to watch the same program together is a "mysig" (cozy) moment, typical of Sweden.

It might be comparable to Japan's "Kohaku Uta Gassen."

What is "Julbord," the Swedish Christmas Specialty?

After watching Disney, it's time for Julbord (Christmas buffet).
Sometimes people enjoy it with colleagues or friends at a restaurant, but many families also have a homemade, simpler version of Julbord.

Even a home version is typically prepared in large quantities, like Japanese Osechi Ryori, with several dishes meant to be eaten the next day as well.
The meal is broadly divided into four steps.

① Cold Fish Dishes (Sill, Salmon, etc.)

The first chapter of Julbord is "fish."
The main lineup includes:

• Pickled herring (Sill; flavors include mustard, dill, cream, onion)

• Marinated salmon

• Boiled eggs with cod roe (simple caviar)

• Various cheeses

The pickled herring has a perfect balance of saltiness and sweetness and pairs excellently with drinks.

② Cold Meat Dishes (Ham, Pâtés)

Next are cold meat dishes like ham and roast beef.

• Ham (Julskinka: Christmas ham)

• Roast beef

• Pâtés and liver spreads

Eating them on bread with mustard or jam is the Swedish way.

③ Warm Main Dishes (Sausages, Meatballs, Jansson's Temptation)

Next up are the main dishes.

• Sausages

• Swedish meatballs

• Stuffed cabbage rolls

• Stew

• Potato gratin with anchovies, "Jansson's Temptation"

Especially "Jansson's Temptation," with its exquisite saltiness from anchovies and rich creaminess, is a popular dish among Swedish cuisine.

④ Dessert (Chocolate, Panna Cotta, Rice Pudding)

After the meal, with coffee or tea:

• Saffron rice pudding

• Panna cotta

• Christmas chocolates

There's such a wide variety that you can't help but overeat.
"Be careful not to take too much" is also part of the Julbord tradition.

What is a Home Julbord Like?

A home Julbord typically has almost the same structure as a restaurant one, with

• pickled herring

• Christmas ham

• meatballs

• boiled eggs

• salmon

• Jansson's Temptation

and so on as staples.
Families gather around a large table laden with dishes and slowly enjoy their meal together.

After the Meal, Gift Exchange. Not Just for Kids, but a "Happy Time" for Adults Too

The timing for opening presents varies by household; some open them after watching Disney at 3 PM, while others do so during a relaxed time after dinner. My husband's family does the latter.
Presents placed under the tree are opened one by one.

In Sweden, adults also receive gifts, which is our family's custom, and that time is truly exciting.
There's also a culture of asking "What do you want?" beforehand, so practical items or favorite goods are often chosen.

Since I prefer a simple lifestyle, I often ask for "consumable items" like olive oil, honey, or hand soap.

In Sweden, where there's a high awareness of the climate crisis,

• reducing the number of gifts

• having a game where only winners receive gifts

• making Julbord vegan-friendly

more and more families are adopting eco-friendly practices.

"Merry Christmas!" in Swedish!

Swedish Christmas is a culture that values "warm time with family" more than extravagance.
All the presents and feasts are for enriching the time spent with family.

May you all have a wonderful holiday season. Thank you for your continued support of Circuliv this year.

Finally, I will close with a Swedish Christmas greeting.

God Jul! (Good Yule = Merry Christmas)

Here is the story that embodies the values of "circular living" that Circuliv cherishes.
→ ［The story of the upcycled tote bag born from hotel linen, originating in Sweden］