06/06/2026
Happy Swedish National Day!
You’re probably never as Swedish as you become after moving abroad.
All of a sudden, you somehow become even MORE Swedish.
You learn more about Sweden, our history, and the origins of our traditions.
You celebrate holidays with a little extra authenticity.
And you firmly believe that a semla should be a semla—not a Semla Wrap, a Semla Frappé, or some strange “Muffla.”
You get teary-eyed when you see a Lucia procession, and you let out a joyful shout if you manage to get your paws on a bag of Swedish cheese puffs.
You practically twist your neck trying to catch a glimpse of anything blue and yellow that might be our flag.
There is something uniquely relaxed and comfortable about meeting other Swedes abroad. There is an immediate sense of belonging and community.
You never have to explain why you have to sing at a party. Everyone appreciates the charm and humor of our hundreds of different dialects. And everyone agrees that drinking coffee at nine o’clock in the evening is perfectly normal.
What is it that Sweden has given us that creates such a strong sense of community?
Is it simply Astrid Lindgren’s wonderful stories, our traditional drinking songs, and our fantastic food? Is it the shared memories?
Could it be something even deeper?
Has Sweden given us something along the way that has shaped us all in a similar way?
There are many generalizations one can make about Sweden and the Swedish people. Of course, there are exceptions, but overall I believe we can say the following:
Sweden is truly a country built on equality. From women’s right to vote, to parental leave for Dads, to ensuring that children’s voices are represented in our government, Sweden has long been a global leader in equality. To us, it simply feels natural that everyone should have representation and equal opportunities.
The vast majority of Swedes genuinely care about nature and the environment.
We have laws and regulations that protect our pets, animals and our natural environment while maintaining a remarkable balance with our cherished right of public access to nature, called Allemansrätten.
Read the rest in the comments.
