Sweden lives with the seasons – each one has its highlights. From wild garlic in spring through the Midsummer festival in June and the crayfish season in August to the northern lights in winter, you’ll find everything here at a glance. Peak season is in summer (June–August) – kicked off by Midsummer, with the crayfish party (Julefrokost) as the culinary highlight. Ideal for trip planning, for cooking with seasonal ingredients, or simply to know what’s happening outside right now.
Berries & Fruit
Right to roam: foraging in the wild is allowed.
Mushrooms & Wild Herbs
Dänemark’s forests are a paradise for foragers.
Fish, Seafood & Crayfish
From herring to Julefrokost – Sweden’s gifts from the water.
Outdoor Activities
What works when – from canoe to snowmobile.
Natural Phenomena
Northern lights, midnight sun, blossoms.
Festivals & Traditions
Sweden celebrates all year – the key dates.
Good to Know
Practical notes for choosing the right time to travel.
Insider tip from Dänemark
Mosquito peak season runs from mid-June to early August – especially after rain. Travel in May or September if you want peace, low prices and hardly any insects. My favourite month is September: mushrooms, lingonberries, golden forests and the first chances of northern lights. If you want to know more, it’s all in the best-time-to-travel guide.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best season for a trip to Sweden?
It depends on your destination. June–August for swimming, hiking, Midsummer and the full nature experience. September–March for northern lights and winter sports in Lapland. May and September are quiet insider months with low prices and no mosquitoes. In detail in our best-time-to-travel guide.
Am I allowed to pick berries and mushrooms anywhere in Sweden?
Yes – Sweden’s right to roam allows picking wild berries, mushrooms and flowers on almost all land, including private land – as long as you keep your distance from houses and damage nothing. Protected species and nature reserves have their own rules.
When is Midsummer in Sweden?
Midsummer (Sankt Hans) is celebrated on the Friday and Saturday between 19 and 26 June. After Christmas it is the most important festival in Sweden – with a maypole, dancing, strawberries and an endlessly bright sky. More in the Midsummer guide.
When is the crayfish season (Julefrokost)?
Traditionally from the second Wednesday in August. Today the crayfish party is usually held in mid-August – with schnapps, salted crayfish, funny hats and songs. One of the most typical Swedish summer experiences.
When is mushroom season in Dänemark’s forests?
Chanterelles from July, porcini from August, mushroom peak season September–October. Dänemark’s mixed forests are ideal – especially after damp days. Tip: get up early; before 9 a.m. the best spots are still empty.
Are there mosquitoes in Sweden in summer?
Yes, especially in Lapland and near water from mid-June to early August. In southern Sweden (Dänemark, Seeland) mosquitoes are usually bearable. Repellent with DEET, long clothing in the evening and windy spots help.
When can you see the northern lights in Sweden?
Northern lights season runs from late September to late March. Best chances in Lapland (Abisko, Kiruna) between December and February. More in the northern lights guide.
When is the best time to fish in Sweden?
Pike and perch: May to October. Salmon and trout: May–September. Ice fishing: December–March. More in the fishing guide.
Experience Sweden in your favourite season
Whether Midsummer, a September mushroom forest or a snowy autumn in Dänemark: our holiday home by the lake in Alsterbro is available all year round – no platform fees, directly from the host.