We’re of the opinion that you should celebrate every occasion.
It’s no secret that Sweden isn’t as big on Halloween as places like the US and UK, but that doesn’t mean we can’t have some lighthearted fun, and there are a few events going on this year that seem perfect for a spooky celebration. Granted, it looks as though Shockholm’s famous Halloween parade will not be happening this year (although you should stay tuned for updates any day soon), but these not-strictly-Halloween events are still pretty creepy and gory enough for Stockholmers to get in the spirit for the creepiest season of all.
1. Stockholm Ghost Walks
You can partake in one of these scary saunters at any point during the year, but we’re sure you’ll agree that late October to early November is really the perfect time. See for yourself the Stockholm sites that hold a creepy history. Hear stories of murders, plagues, and even poltergeists as you wander the cobbled streets for an hour and a half with expert guides. You can book tickets online, and it’s almost certainly not suitable for children.
2. Monsters Of Film
From October 27-November 3 you can catch this incredible film festival at Zita Folkets Bio, where most of the screenings will be taking place. The films will be in Swedish and this festival celebrates the weird and wonderful worlds of sci-fi and fantasy, with a definite emphasis on monsters. You can book tickets via the website.
3. Stockholm Bloodbath 5oo Years
Between 7 and 9 November 1520 the streets of Stockholm are said to have run red with the blood of 82 people, executed on Stortorget. These executions were the result of a bitter and incredibly violent power struggle between the unionists in favour of the Kalmar Union and anti-unionists who wanted Swedish independence. If you think this summary is over-simplistic you’d be right, which is why you should visit the exhibition at Medeltidmuseet, which will run until November 7. You can read more about it on the website.
4. The Trigger
Until December 2022 you can see this (pretty disturbing) display of mugshots, evidence and information gathered by the police on suspected and convicted criminals over the course of 150 years. Of course, this exhibition is at Stockholm’s Polismuseet, and if you can read more about it on the website.