The tradition of autumn break has grown strong over the past few decades, and nowadays, both schools and municipalities offer activities and many destinations have special programs during this time. In many contexts, people refer to autumn break as "reading break".
Is it Autumn Break or Reading Break?
It has started being called "reading break" instead of autumn break because the government and organizations like the Reading Movement (Läsrörelsen) wanted to increase children's interest in reading and improve Swedes' reading skills. The name change became official in 2016 after a government decision, with the goal of giving the week an active theme, similar to the sports break, but in this case, highlighting reading as something fun and important.
What Do Families Usually Do During Autumn Break?
- Outdoor excursions: Many families take the opportunity to hike, pick mushrooms, or enjoy the autumn colors in the woods and fields.
- Parks and outdoor recreation areas are often filled with families who want to make the most of the last mild days before winter.
- Visits to swimming pools and play centers: Indoor activities are popular when the weather is unstable. Water parks, trampoline parks, and play centers fill up quickly during the break.
- Amusement parks, e.g. Gröna Lund in Stockholm organizes a special autumn break week with Halloween-themed activities.
- Cultural visits: Several museums, libraries, and science centers have special autumn break programs for children. These can include workshops, guided tours, crafts, and experiments.
Halloween celebrations
Since Halloween falls at the same time, homes and areas are decorated with pumpkins and ghosts. Many people organize ghost walks, costume parties, or treasure hunts, and stores sell costumes and candy for "Trick or Treat".
Trips and stays with relatives
Some families take the autumn break as an opportunity to travel, for example, to visit grandparents, a cottage, the mountains, or sometimes for a weekend abroad.
Tips for a Memorable Autumn Break
- Plan activities in advance, popular excursion destinations can quickly become fully booked.
- Dress according to the weather! Swedish autumn is unpredictable.
- Combine rest and activity, it's essential for children to recover after the first intense period of school.
Regardless of whether you stay at home or discover something new, the autumn break is a chance for valuable quality time together. Take advantage of the break and create your own traditions that suit your family!
