Swedish National Day
Swedish National Day is celebrated annually on June 6, commemorating significant historical events in Sweden's past. This date marks the election of Gustav Vasa as king in 1523, which ended centuries of Danish rule, and the adoption of a progressive constitution in 1809 that advanced individual rights. Although not a public holiday, the day features a variety of festivities across the nation, with many people displaying the iconic blue and yellow Swedish flag. Celebrations include parades, musical performances, and speeches from notable politicians and members of the Swedish royal family. Traditional food, such as Sverigebakelsen—a pastry made with marzipan and strawberries—is enjoyed during the festivities. Additionally, the day serves as a ceremonial occasion for welcoming new citizens, as immigrants and others fulfilling the requirements for Swedish citizenship are sworn in. Overall, Swedish National Day reflects national pride and the country's rich history and values.
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Swedish National Day
Swedish National Day
June 6 of every year has been celebrated as National Day in the Scandinavian nation of Sweden since 1916. Because it is also an occasion for displaying the national flag, its alternative name is Flag Day. The choice of June 6 came from two important historical events on that day: the selection of Gustav Vasa as king of Sweden on June 6, 1523, after centuries of rule by Denmark, and the adoption of a progressive constitution on June 6, 1809, which contained various new guarantees of individual rights.
National Day is not a public holiday, but there are a variety of festivities throughout the country nonetheless. The distinctive blue and yellow Swedish flag is prominently displayed in most public places. There are parades, musical performances, and speeches by prominent politicians and the Swedish royal family, including the reigning monarch. The day is also celebrated with food, including Sverigebakelsen, a special pastry made with marzipan and strawberries. Finally, National Day is an occasion for swearing in immigrants and others who have fulfilled the requirements for Swedish citizenship.