Colors of Vasteras - traditions, festivals, mentality and lifestyle

Local people are very calm and reserved. They are friendly and treat foreign tourists with respect and some curiosity. They will not leave any help request unanswered. Locals will always take a traveler to a place of interest or explain how to reach a certain part of the city. Respect for all rules and careful following them is a no less striking national feature. For Vasteras residents, it is very important to follow all regulations and never break the laws. It is also important to mention that if someone witnesses a violation of any kind, they will surely report that to the police. Such behavior is not considered wrong or shameful in the country.

It is also important to mention that locals love all kinds of celebrations. Many national holidays have been celebrated for several centuries. Midsummer is an interesting holiday that locals celebrate with particular passion. It is considered a family holiday, so locals prefer to celebrate Midsummer together with family members. As a rule, people go to the countryside to enjoy the splendor of nature and warm sunny days.

The city, on the contrary, becomes very silent. There are not many pedestrians and cars even in the midst of the day. Circlet of flowers has been the main symbol of Midsummer for centuries, so locals start this day with gathering flowers. In accordance with an old tradition, each family should install a special pile that is decorated with flower garlands and ribbons. All main events of the holiday take place near this pile. Merry ring dances and games, feasts full of delicious food and sport competitions – both adults and children love this holiday. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Spicy herring is considered the main dish of this holiday. It is traditionally served with boiled potatoes. As most festive activities are outdoor ones, all kinds of grilled food are very widespread and popular. When it comes to desserts, strawberry with whipped cream remains the leader as this berry is ripe right before the holiday. Festive activities last until late in the evening. When the night comes, many enjoy fortune telling. In accordance with an old tradition, young girls should put seven different flowers under their pillow. Then they will surely see their future husband in a dream.

Christmas is one more beloved time of the year. First traces of the holiday appear already in November when the Skultuna Christmas Fair opens in the city. Countless festively decorated stalls offer local delicacies, street food, souvenirs, drinks, traditional crafts, and many other goods. Many come to the fair simply to admire Christmas gnomes over Skultuna Brassworks, the age of which is more than 400 years. There is one more Christmas Fair in the city – Vallby Open Air Museum Christmas Fair. It looks like an old classic Christmas fair that looks particularly amazing surrounded by old buildings. Traditional Christmas carols, Father Christmas, and charming decorations create a cozy and welcoming atmosphere.

Wine connoisseurs will definitely not want to miss Vasteras Wine Fair that takes place in the city in September. As a rule, the event attracts more than 70 exhibitors from different parts of the continent and beyond. Visitors have a fantastic opportunity to taste and smell both traditional wine and exotic variations, rate new blends, and improve their overall knowledge of the drink. In order to get acquainted with the cultural life of the city, consider visiting Vasteras Culture Night. Vasteras Cityfestival is another great event to attend. The festival takes place on June 29 to July 1. This is one of the most beloved celebrations in the city. For three days, Vasteras transforms into a large entertainment center. Both adults and children have fun and participate in various performances and events. The festively decorated center of Vasteras becomes the location of live music concerts, food stalls, funfair rides, artisan outlets, and much more.