Culture
Latest news and important information on culture, art, the arts industry, theatre, cinema, and more from Sweden.
'Pippi Longstocking hit differently after I moved to Sweden'
When something in a culture becomes so iconic that it's ubiquitous, it can be easy to assume that its status is overblown. But even after all this time and exposure, Pippi Longstocking still lives up to the hype, writes The Local's Mandy Pipher.
Tell us: What are your favourite Swedish children's books?
We want to know what Swedish children's books have had a real impact on you or your children.
Halloween vs All Saints' Day: How to celebrate in Sweden
When do Swedish children go trick or treating, and why isn't it always on October 31st as Halloween tradition dictates?
The best places to celebrate Halloween in Sweden in 2026
It's officially spooky season! Whether you're looking for a fright or just want to get into the autumn spirit and carve some pumpkins, here's our list of Halloween events up and down the country.
WATCH: Abba legend Benny Andersson serenades Social Democrat leader
The composer of legendary Swedish pop group Abba on Sunday gave the band's hit "Mamma Mia" a campaign makeover to rally support for centre-left opposition candidate Magdalena Andersson.
Ten things to hate about Midsummer in Sweden
Okay, we love Midsummer. But one must admit... there are a few things that can get on your nerves.
Why two iconic Stockholm museums might have to close
Two beloved museums in central Stockholm are at risk of closing because the government agency which owns the land is now requiring the museums, which are also run by a government agency, to pay market rents on the space.
Bulgaria's 'Bangaranga' wins Eurovision, with Israel second
Bulgaria won the Eurovision Song Contest on Sunday with Dara's catchy floor-filler "Bangaranga" sweeping the 70th edition of the world's biggest live televised music event and pushing into second place Israel, whose participation had triggered a major boycott.
Nine festivals you should not miss out on in Sweden this summer
Sweden's music festival season kicks off on Thursday, May 14th, when the Norwegian hip-hop trio Roc Boyz take to the stage at Gröna Lund in Stockholm. Here are some of the events you should try not to miss.
Geopolitics threatens 70th anniversary of Eurovision
The Eurovision Song Contest is famous for celebrating everything from cross-dressing ballad singers to heavy metal bands in monster masks, but geopolitics is threatening its 70th anniversary edition.
15 movies that will help you discover Sweden without leaving your couch
From Norrland to Skåne: the Swedish art of depicting the country's scenery through film is underrated. This list will help you discover Sweden without leaving your sofa.
SKARS-GUIDE: Who's who in Sweden's Skarsgård acting dynasty?
Alongside Abba and Ikea, Oscar nominee Stellan Skarsgård and his many children are some of Sweden's most famous international exports. But who are they and what have you seen them in?
The best podcasts for learning and perfecting your Swedish
Once you've learned the basics of Swedish, listening to podcasts is one of the best ways of increasing vocabulary and speeding up comprehension. Here are some of the best podcasts out there for Swedish learners.
Culture, politics, food: What makes Europeans proud of their country?
A recent survey by the Pew Research Centre delved into what people feel proudest about in their country, with Europeans pointing to history, food and culture among the main reasons.
All the odd things you can borrow from a Swedish library
When you hear the word ‘library’, you probably think of borrowing books and maybe the odd film. But what about a ukulele, a sewing machine, or even tickets to the opera?
Swedish TV: Watch these series to understand Swedish society
So, you've got a good grasp of Swedish but still feel like there are some cultural references you don't quite 'get'. You're not sure what faluröd means and don't understand why Swedes love eating tacos on Fridays. Here's a list of TV programmes to get you up to speed.
Eight brands you didn’t know were Nordic and two that wish they were
Plenty of Scandinavian brands have made it overseas, but did you realise these companies have Nordic origins?
Why do the Swedes watch Ivanhoe on New Year's Day?
A lot of Sweden's holiday traditions centre around the TV, and one of the most baffling takes place on the afternoon of January 1st. What is it about the 1982 adaptation of Ivanhoe that gets people tuning in, year after year?
Social media driving the Christmas toy wishes of Swedish kids
The nordic postal service company Postnord has released information on what has topped the Christmas lists sent to "Santa" by Swedish kids this year. It's a lot of social media driven trend toys – and some classics.
Head of Nobel-awarding Swedish Academy resigns
The Swedish Academy said Saturday its permanent secretary, Mats Malm, is stepping down after seven years of heading the prestigious institution that awards the annual Nobel literature prize.
Former manager of Swedish star Avicii sues deceased artist's family
A former manager of Swedish superstar DJ Avicii said Tuesday that he had initiated legal proceedings to correct the "public record" regarding his alleged influence on the late artist's suicide.
The Swedish origins of the Christmas song Fairytale of New York
The Pogues' Fairytale of New York, the gritty tale of love gone wrong many consider the greatest Christmas song ever written, has its origins in Sweden, at least according to a new commemorative plaque erected in the city of Malmö.
'Our Christmas ham has run away': Ten of Sweden's best holiday hits
Sick of Last Christmas and All I Want for Christmas is You? We've put together a list of Swedish Christmas songs, including standard hits and more unusual offerings, for you to add to your playlist this year.