A Taste of Sweden: Celebrate August with a Traditional Crayfish Party

As the late-summer sun lingers over Swedish gardens and lakesides, families and friends gather to honour one of the country’s most joyful seasonal traditions - the kräftskiva, or crayfish party.

Held throughout August, these vibrant outdoor feasts are a celebration of Swedish summer at its finest: long evenings, fresh air, and delicious food, Snaps songs and games of Kubb shared under the open sky.

What is a Crayfish Party?

Much like Australia’s love for yabbies, Swedes delight in freshwater crayfish – typically boiled with dill and served cold alongside simple, flavourful sides. Guests wear playful paper hats and sing traditional drinking songs as they crack shells and sip summery cocktails. The mood is light, the laughter is plenty, and the tables are always dressed in festive spirit.

Host Your Own Scandinavian-Inspired Winter Celebration

At Nordic Fusion, we’re passionate about bringing these joyful traditions to life – whether you're lakeside, garden-bound or setting a table on the balcony. Here’s how to channel the Swedish spirit:

• Serve up the classics: Alongside your yabbies or crayfish, add a jar or two of authentic Swedish herring and crunchy crispbreads for that perfectly Nordic bite.
• Dress the table: Our beautiful Ekelund Swedish table runners and placemats embrace this long-standing tradition.
• Mix refreshing drinks: Our elderflower and lingonberry cordials make beautiful bases for light cocktails or sparkling mocktails.
• Set the mood with style: Sip your drinks from the iconic Ultima Thule glasses and candle holders by Iittala – their distinctive, ice-inspired texture adds a cool and elegant touch to any outdoor table.

 

 

• Finish on a sweet note: Pass around a bowl of Scandi candy to keep the cheer going well into the evening.
• Stay snug: As the air cools, throw on a soft Klippan wool blanket from our collection – perfect for keeping cosy while the stars come out.

Shop our full kräftskiva / crayfish party collection here ➝

Why We Love It

The crayfish party is more than a meal – it’s a celebration of togetherness, nature, and the fleeting magic of summer. It’s about creating memories, toasting the season, and adding a touch of fun and whimsy to everyday life.

So set the table, pour the drinks, and embrace this Swedish tradition with your own Scandi twist here in Australia.

Skål to summer!