National Day

Swedes love their country but they aren’t the kind to make a big fuss about that fact.

The Swedish flag

Photo: www.imagebank.sweden.se/Richard Ryan

Perhaps this is why it has taken such a long time for Sweden’s National Day, 6 June, to be a day that is widely celebrated. As a peace-loving nation that has not been part of any armed conflicts in modern times, Sweden’s patriotism has been quietly reserved.

First a Flag Day
After World War I, national-romantic idealism had spread across the country and public interest for a National Day grew. In answer to this, and through a number of private initiatives, Swedish Flag Day was adopted. The date chosen was 6 June. Gustav Vasa was elected King of Sweden on that date in 1523 and there was also a Swedish constitution which was signed on the same day in 1809. With three such significant events in Swedish history all happening on that day it was an easy call, 6 June was the obvious choice for Swedish Flag Day.

The Swedish Royal Couple

Photo: www.imagebank.sweden.se/Olof Holdar

Public holiday in 2005
In 1983, 6 June officially became National Day, with the pomp and circumstance that such a day deserves, although with most celebrating reserved for after working hours. The Swedish royal family participates in an evening ceremony held annually at Skansen, the open-air museum. In 2005, for the first time since its inception, Sweden’s National Day became a public holiday, thanks to a vote held in the Swedish Riksdag in 2004.

Author: Tsemaye Opubor Hambraeus, journalist