Crayfish party

August is the month in Sweden where decorations involving paper lanterns seem to take over from the subdued, tasteful understated design aesthetic that usually abounds in the country.

Photo: Jonas Ingerstedt/Johnér

In fact everything low-key and understated about Swedes goes in the opposite direction during this period of time.

Suddenly nothing is too kitsch, too loud, too silly.

Crayfish decorate bibs that people actually wear, with matching hats, napkins, plates and tablecloths all similarly coordinated. Oh, and lets not forget the glasses, dishes and other available items.

In case you haven’t already gathered, in Sweden, the theme for the month of August is crayfish.

Crayfish are a delicacy worshipped with reckless abandon in Sweden. Supermarkets sell the shellfish, from Sweden and a host of other countries, and newspapers have long reviews, about the season’s best and worst offerings.

They are boiled in brine, with dill and are most often eaten outdoors, if weather permits. Remember those colourful paper lanterns? They are hung around the table to smile down upon you like a cheerful, full moon.

The hats and bibs? They are donned by banker and builder alike, nothing is seen as too comical when the revered crayfish is served on the menu.

Then the party begins.

Photo: Bruno Ehrs/Bildhuset

Crayfish is eaten cold and with gusto. To extract the meat and juices, loud sucking and slurping is part of acceptable table manners. Naturally the party would not be complete without beer and schnapps, and to keep things balanced, bread and sharp cheeses are served on the side.

So come in August if you want to see just how down to earth Swedes are, especially when crayfish is on the menu.