Christmas is a magnificent time of the year. As Christmas approaches, one can see numerous traditions flowing in the air. Christmas in Sweden is one of the best times of the year to book hostels in Stockholm. The city provides visitors with an excellent festive experience in the weeks before the big day itself.

Christmas Markets : The Swedish capital has some of the best Christmas markets in Europe, one of which is the Grona Lund Christmas Market. The market comes complete with an ice skating rink, festive shows, carousels and other enjoyable fairground rides. Across the street from Grona Lund is Skansen, the oldest open-air museum in the world. There is another excellent market here selling a whole range of Christmas goods. In addition, there are a number of events and activities held here, including traditional candle-making.

The market at Kungstradgarden, a large park in central Stockholm, is where the larger shops are located so visitors can stroll through the traditional market before heading to the big department stores. One unique offering that backpackers staying in local Stockholm hostels can enjoy is the Street Design and Handicrafts Christmas Market. Imaginative, creative and fun presents are on sale and available to buy here; while farmers gather to sell fresh Swedish delicacies during the chilly nights.

Christmas Concerts: Traditional festive songs and carols are performed almost every night in the run up to Christmas. Children’s groups and adult singers make their way through the streets and perform to the general public, but there are also a number of professional concerts going on throughout the city.
The Stjarnjul, which has been an annual event in Stockholm since 1993, is held on the 13th, 19th and 20th of December this year and will take place at the Filadelfia Church in the Rorstrandsgatan district. With a 12-piece band, a number of soloists and 200 members in the choir, it truly makes for a Christmas night to remember. There is also a concert in Stockholm Cathedral on the 20th and 21st December. While listening to the music, visitors are free to look around the medieval cathedral, which was built in 1279.

Christmas Food: Many restaurants around Stockholm offer a host of special discounts and deals during the festive season, making it idealfor backpackers and budget travelers alike. Traditional Christmas buffets are also available at a number of restaurants until December 21st.

Christmas brings a new life to the believers. Much before Christmas comes, the mood around the world changes. It is the anticipation of lovely days ahead of giving joy, meeting friends and family and feeling the spirit in the air that changes the most negative person to positive moods.