In Sweden, the state-owned Systembolaget chain has a monopoly on over-the-counter sales of drinks with an alcohol content stronger than 3.5 percent ABV – and it's closed without exception on Sundays and public holidays.
This means that if you don't manage to visit before it shuts for the festive season, you risk having to ring in the new year with nothing more than low-alcohol cider from the supermarket.
Systembolaget opening hours over New Year's 2025
Monday December 29th: All stores open until at least 7pm
Tuesday December 30th: All stores open until at least 7pm
Wednesday December 31st (New Year's Eve): All stores open until 3pm
Thursday January 1st (New Year's Day): Closed
After that, Systembolaget will be back to regular opening hours with the exception of Epiphany on January 6th, when it will be closed.
What to do if you miss it?
If you live in Malmö or Helsingborg, you can always pop over to Denmark, where you can buy wine, spirits and strong beer in any supermarket.
Otherwise, you can buy low- or no-alcohol beer and cider at most supermarkets and small newsagents or corner shops, or you'll just have to do without.
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