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Annual lighting of the Swedish Christmas Tree

The Embassy welcomes you to attend the annual lighting of the Swedish Christmas Tree outside Escher in The Palace on Lange Voorhout in The Hague – a tradition since 1957!

Join Ambassador H.E. Mr. Julius Liljeström, Mayor of the Hague Jan van Zanen, and Theo Heere, Chairman of Buurtschap2005, who together will light the tree that the Embassy donates to The Hague every year as a token of the excellent Swedish-Dutch relations.

 

Wednesday 10 December 2025:

18:00 Gathering and outdoor serving of Swedish “Glögg”

18:30 Speeches and lighting of the Swedish Christmas Tree

18:45: Performance by the Lucia choir

19:00: End of program

In Sweden, the Christmas tree is the centerpiece of every home, surrounded by advent lights and stars in the windows. On Christmas Eve, children sing and dance around the tree before gathering for a festive meal. And while the Dutch gather for Sinterklaas in early December, in Sweden we celebrate Lucia. In the early morning of 13 December, Lucia songs are sung, and saffron buns are shared in homes, schools, and offices — a moment of light in the darkest time of year.

Take this opportunity to experience Christmas the Swedish Way – with lights, Lucia songs, and tradition. See you there!

Last updated 03 Dec 2025, 4.58 PM