Swedish Spring: Fun Signs of Springtime in Sweden
Today we're talking about one of the most exciting seasons in Sweden - springtime!
Now, I know what you're thinking - what's so special about spring in Sweden? Well, my friends, let me tell you - it's a time of renewal, rebirth, and rejuvenation! It's a time when the snow starts to melt, the birds return from their winter migration, and the animals wake up from their long hibernation.
Speaking of animals, have you ever wondered which animals hibernate in Sweden and wake up in spring? Well, let me give you a few examples - the brown bear (björn), the hedgehog (igelkott), and the dormouse (hasselmus) are just a few of the critters that snuggle up and snooze through the winter months before emerging in the spring. Can you imagine how hungry they must be after sleeping for so long? I know I would be very ‘hangry’!
Nature is bursting with new life
But it's not just the animals that wake up in spring - the plants and flowers start to bloom too! Snowdrops (snödroppar), winter aconite (vintergäck), and hyacinths (hyacinter), and crokus (krokus) are just a few of the herbs that signify the arrival of spring in Sweden.
And let's not forget about the trees and their buds and bulbs - birch, hazel (hassel), and elm (skogsalm) - all bursting with new life!
People defrost and go out and about
As the days get longer and warmer, people start to shed their winter coats and get outside. Cyclists hit the roads, runners hit the tracks, and everyone seems to have a newfound sense of energy and enthusiasm. Motorists change from winter tyres to summer tyres. And don't forget - it's time to spring forward and change the clocks!
Spring Cleaning Anyone?
Spring cleaning used to be a big deal in Sweden, with people scrubbing every inch of their homes, especially the windows. While it may not be as popular as it once was, there's still something about the arrival of spring that makes us want to clean and declutter.
Special days in spring
Of course, spring in Sweden also brings a few downsides - pollen allergies, anyone? But let's focus on the positive - springtime also means holidays like Easter (påsk), Ascension Day (kristi himmelsfärds dag), and Pentecost (pingst), as well as more secular traditions like Walpurgis Night (valborgsmässoafton) and May Day (första maj). It's a time to celebrate, to connect with family and friends, and to enjoy all the wonderful things that Sweden has to offer.
Don’t be surprised if you run into little children dressed as Easter witches on Easter or if you see people wearing their studentmössor (student hats) while singing spring welcome at Walpurgis! If you have little kids be sure to download my Free Swedish Easter Traditions Printable here.
Want to learn more?
So there you have it, my friends - the signs of springtime in Sweden. And if you're looking to stay connected to Swedish traditions, culture, and language for you and your family, be sure to check out my bilingual children's books, language-learning resources, and fun gifts. I have a special Swedish Spring writing and counting PDF bundle that you will love if your kids are learning Swedish!
