Skansen's Christmas market returns on 27 November, as it has since 1903
Stockholm's historic open-air museum welcomes winter with craft stalls, traditional food, and holiday dancing across four weekends of the festive Advent season.
Illustrative image, not taken at the event.
The annual Christmas market at the Skansen open-air museum in Stockholm returns on 27 November 2026, marking another chapter in a winter tradition that has spanned well over a century. The market takes place across the four weekends of Advent, welcoming visitors from Friday through Sunday until 20 December. Over these twelve market days, the grounds provide a festive gathering place where locals and travelers can experience Swedish holiday customs in an open setting. Opening hours are scheduled from 10 to 17 on Fridays and Saturdays, and from 10 to 16 on Sundays, giving guests ample daylight to explore the stalls and historic surroundings.
Flavors and crafts on the square
Bollnästorget serves as the vibrant center of the market, hosting around 70 stalls filled with traditional goods, artisan crafts, and seasonal foods. Shoppers can browse a wide selection of handmade items made from natural materials, including textiles, wood, ceramics, and wool. Stalls also feature hand-dipped candles and classic straw goats, which remain enduring symbols of Swedish holiday decorating. Food lovers will find plenty of seasonal favorites to taste and take home, from sweet marzipan and rich saffron buns to hearty loaves of traditional Christmas bread. Outdoor cooking fills the air with welcoming aromas, as vendors prepare kolbullar over open fires alongside freshly made waffles, roasted almonds, and steaming cups of spiced glögg to keep visitors warm in the cool afternoon air.
More than a century of tradition
Beyond shopping and dining, the event keeps lively cultural heritage alive through shared activities and music. Throughout the market days, folk musicians play traditional tunes while visitors gather together for dancing around the decorated Christmas tree. This cheerful social custom has deep roots at Skansen. The market first started back in 1903, when it was originally conceived as a small winter bazaar organized by Skansen staff members and the museum folk dance group. Over the decades, that modest venture grew into a cherished annual ritual for Stockholm. It has returned during every Advent season since its inception, with 2020 being the sole year the tradition was interrupted. Its continued presence highlights the enduring appeal of simple seasonal pleasures and community spirit.
This report is based on information published by Skansen. Details such as dates and times can change, so check the original before you go.
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