Good Friday 2025
Date: April 18, 2025 (Friday)
Country: Sweden Public Holidays
Description
Good Friday in Sweden is a public holiday called Långfredagen in Swedish. It is a solemn day tied to the Christian story of Jesus. Many people treat it as a quiet and reflective time in the year.
The holiday falls on the Friday before Easter Sunday. Because Easter moves each year with the spring moon, Good Friday also changes date every year. It is part of Holy Week, the final days leading up to Easter.
For Christians the day remembers the crucifixion of Jesus and his sacrifice. It is a time for reflection, prayer, and thinking about deep ideas like forgiveness and suffering. The tone is more serious than the joyful celebration of Easter Sunday.
Good Friday is significant beyond religion too. It shapes the Swedish calendar and marks the start of the long Easter weekend. Even in a largely secular country many people notice the day and use it for quiet family time or personal reflection.
Traditions
Many Swedes treat Good Friday as a quiet, slow day. Shops and offices often close. People may attend somber church services with candles and hymns. In some towns there are small processions or moments of silence in public spaces.
Food is often meat free. Families eat fish dishes like pickled herring, smoked salmon and boiled eggs with rye bread. Simple lunches at home are common. Some people still follow small fasts or choose lighter meals until Sunday.
Customs include home crafts, cleaning the house and enjoying calm time with family. Public life moves slowly, and many use the day for reflection, rest and low key gatherings rather than big parties or noisy events.
Travel Tips
Many shops, banks and some museums have reduced hours or are closed. Public transport runs but with fewer departures. Check schedules and book tickets in advance. Bring snacks and any medicine since pharmacies may be closed.
Parks and tourist spots can be busy midday. Expect some road or parking restrictions and plan extra travel time. Stay aware of your belongings in crowds, follow local signs, and join organized walks or outdoor time to enjoy the day safely and meaningfully.