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18 Apr 2025
From Songkran's Splashes to Påsk's Delights: Embracing the Holiday Season in Sweden
As the vibrant splashes of Songkran, the traditional Thai New Year, fade into cherished memories, a new season of reflection and joy dawns in Sweden with the arrival of Påsk (Easter). For our Swedish members and friends in Thailand, this transition from the lively Thai festivities to the contemplative yet festive Swedish Easter offers a unique perspective on cultural celebrations and the universal joy of holidays.
Långfredagen (Good Friday), observed this year on 18 April, marks a significant day in the Christian calendar, commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. In Sweden, it is traditionally a day of quiet reflection. Many businesses may have adjusted hours, and the atmosphere is generally more subdued. It's a time for introspection and spending peaceful moments with family.
However, the solemnity of Långfredagen gives way to the anticipation and joy of the Easter weekend in Sweden. Swedish Easter traditions (Påsk traditions), celebrated on Sunday, 20 April, are a delightful blend of religious observance and charming folk customs.
Here are a few highlights of Swedish Easter celebrations:
Easter Eggs (Påskägg): Just as children (and adults!) eagerly anticipate Songkran water fights and receiving blessings, the excitement around Påskägg is palpable in Sweden. These brightly decorated eggs, often filled with candy and small treats, are hidden for children to find on Easter Sunday. This playful tradition adds a touch of magic to the holiday.
Easter Witches (Påskkärringar): Keep an eye out for little "witches" with painted faces and colorful scarves! On Maundy Thursday (the Thursday before Good Friday), children often dress up as påskkärringar and go door-to-door, offering handmade drawings or greetings in exchange for a small treat – a charming parallel to the spirit of sharing and goodwill we experience during Songkran.
Easter Decorations: Homes are often adorned with yellow and green decorations, feathers, and of course, birch twigs decorated with colorful feathers (påskris). These vibrant touches bring a sense of spring and renewal, echoing the fresh beginnings celebrated during Songkran.
Easter Feast (Påskbord): Similar to the gatherings and special meals enjoyed during Songkran, the Swedish Easter table (Påskbord) is a feast for the senses. Traditional dishes often include pickled herring (sill), salmon (lax), potatoes, and the tempting Janssons frestelse (a creamy potato and anchovy gratin). Lamb is also a popular main course during Easter in Sweden.
Celebrating Easter in Bangkok
For those celebrating Easter in Bangkok, you have delightful opportunities to experience the taste of an Easter Feast right here!
Kimpton Maa-Lai Bangkok invites you to their Easter Brunch on Sunday, 20 April 2025, from 12:00 to 15:00 at Stock.Room. Adding to the festive fun, children can become "Little Sherlock Holmes" detectives and unearth Easter Egg treasures during the Morning Hunt (11:30 to 12:30) and Afternoon Hunt (14:00 to 15:00) at Studio 4 on the 6th floor.
Chatrium Grande Bangkok is also hosting an Easter Brunch on Sunday, 20 April 2025, offering a special 20% discount (excluding beverages). Please note that direct advance reservation with the hotel is required and subject to availability.
The Thai-Swedish Chamber of Commerce wishes all our members and friends a peaceful Långfredagen and a joyful Påsk filled with warmth and delightful Swedish traditions!