What's most important work-wise around Christmas?
During Christmas, there's a lot of time off, especially this year when many people will take vacation days around Christmas and New Year's. You only need 5 days of vacation to be off for 16 days. It's a so-called "employee's Christmas" and an opportunity for a longer vacation.
Do Swedish companies suffer due to all the time off around Christmas?
I don't think that's the case, at least not for companies that mainly operate in Sweden, as all companies have similar time off and breaks. I understand that it might be more work around Christmas for Swedish companies with operations abroad that don't have the same number of vacation days.
How is Christmas celebrated in Sweden?
For most Swedes, Christmas is a family celebration, while New Year's is more about friends and larger parties. There's a Christmas table (Julbord) a dinner or lunch with traditional Christmas food, and companies often invite employees to a Christmas table as well.
Are Christmas gifts important?
In our family, only children receive Christmas gifts. I think it's becoming more common for Christmas gifts to be mainly for children in Sweden, but of course, it varies between families.
What's most important on the Christmas dinner table?
Without a doubt, it's the Christmas ham. Then come pickled herring, meatballs, and sausage. "Janssons Frestelse" is a popular dish that's mostly made for Christmas. And of course, gingerbread cookies and saffron buns, and good mulled wine (Glögg).
What does Christmas mean to you privately?
It means time for recovery and enjoyment. It's valuable time to spend with family and catch up with some relatives and friends around Christmas and New Year's. It feels especially important with rest and proper vacation time, as the next big vacation period, summer vacation, is many months away.
Can there be conflicts around the holidays Christmas and New Year's?
Yes, not in our family, but I've heard many cases where families who don't often get together make an effort to do so during Christmas, and old grudges can resurface. Many people, for example, who live in the city, travel back to their hometowns during the holidays.
We thank Sten for the interview and wish him a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
