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Host a Swedish crayfish party
What is a kräftskiva?
The Swedish crayfish party is a tradition with a long history. Originally, the festival marked the end of the closed season for crayfish fishing but today it is primarily a social highlight of late summer. Boiled crayfish, plenty of dill, schnapps songs, paper hats and crayfish themed decorations are typical components of this popular celebration.
The atmosphere is relaxed, sociable, often a little playful and in the spirit of Swedish lagom: not too much, not too little - just right.
A great location and a lovingly laid table are essential ingredients for a Swedish crayfish party.
Inspired by the colours of the sea - set the table in blue and white.
When and how is a Swedish crayfish party celebrated?
Traditionally a Swedish crayfish party takes place sometime between August and October and is usually celebrated outdoors. The table is lovingly set, lanterns provide cosy lighting and the guests wear the typical paper hats with crayfish motifs. Crayfish and side dishes of bread and cheese are served - and often a herbal schnapps or two, accompanied by many rounds of cheerful drinking songs.
Singing together is an integral part of every Swedish crayfish party. Whether in Swedish or translated - schnapps songs liven up the evening and are just as much a part of the celebration as the crayfish themselves.
The crayfish party is traditionally celebrated outdoors in Sweden (weather permitting).
Decorations: How to create the right atmosphere for your Swedish crayfish party
A successful crayfish party in Sweden is not just about the food, but also about the atmosphere. The decorations play a central role - be it in the garden, on the balcony or in the dining room colourful accents and playful details turn your Swedish crayfish party into a feast for all the senses.
Table decorations for your crayfish party
The table is the centrepiece of every crayfish party in Sweden - this is where people gather to eat crayfish and sing exuberant schnapps songs. This is a playful celebration and the decorations can be a little more colourful than usual:
- Tablecloths and napkins with crayfish or herb motifs provide authentic and playful twist.
- Kitchen towels not only serve as a decorative element but are also very practical when eating crayfish.
- Shot glasses, plates and cutlery in red, white or blue complete the picture.
- Small bowls with dill, lemon slices or maritime details such as shells bring additional accents to the table.
- Place cards or menu cards in a matching style give the table a personal touch.
Tip: Combine bold colours with natural materials such as wood or linen - this creates a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Find the best napkin folding techniques here: 6 napkin folding ideas
Paper hats - a must for every Swedish crayfish party
Playful paper hats with crayfish motifs are part of every Swedish crayfish party, immediately bringing a dose of good humour to the table. Whether bought or homemade - they are a fun element and make for charming photos in the evening.
- Make your own paper hat
- Use a A3 sheet of paper - patterned paper or colourful wrapping paper is particularly suitable.
- Fold the sheet in half lengthways.
- Fold the two top corners towards the centre to create a triangle.
- Fold the bottom edges upwards to create the classic hat shape.
- Decorate the hat as you wish - with crab motifs, stickers, name tags or small pompoms.
Tip: Have paper, scissors and pens ready so that your guests can design their own hats. This is sure to get everyone talking and laughing.
Homemade hats for your crayfish party are a fun and simple addition to your table setting.
Invite your guests to make their own hats as a fun activity.
The finishing touches for your crayfish party
Atmospheric lighting is particularly effective outside, when the evening is slowly getting darker:
- Paper lanterns are a classic element of the Swedish crayfish party.
- Fairy lights, candles, candle holders and lanterns create a cosy and playful atmosphere.
- Garlands with crayfish motifs, flags or colourful pennants are easy to hang and are a real eye-catcher.
- Seat cushions and blankets provide comfort on the balcony or terrace - especially when it gets a little cooler in the evening.
How to eat crayfish properly
Anyone attending a Swedish crayfish party for the first time may be wondering how you actually eat crayfish so here is a short guide:
- Hold the body firmly and twist off the tail.
- Carefully open the tail by cracking open the softer underside with your thumbs, peel back the shell and remove the meat.
- Break off the claws and crack them open with a claw cracker to extract the claw meat.
- The tender meat from the tail and claws is traditionally combined with dill, butter, bread and cheese.
Tip: Napkins and bibs might be needed - eating crayfish can be a messy affair.
What to serve with your crayfish
In addition to crayfish, there are of course, always plenty of other delicacies on the table at a Swedish crayfish party:
- Crusty bread and salted butter
- Västerbottensost (a savoury Swedish hard cheese)
- Pies or quiches
- Potato salad or tomato salad
You can find typical Swedish recipes here: Summer recipes for every occasion
Traditionally, aquavit or herbal schnapps is served (accompanied by traditional schnapps songs) which often get louder and more cheerful as the evening progresses. Alcohol-free alternatives such as herbal lemonades, homemade iced tea or alcohol-free snaps ensure that everyone can join in the celebrations.
You can find alcohol free cocktail recipes here: Easy mocktail recipes: 14 non-alcoholic drinks to enjoy anytime
Raise a toast and sing a verse of your favourite snapsvisa – not sure of the Swedish lyrics? Make up your own!
Our tip: Towels on the table
As crayfish are traditionally eaten with the hands, the feast can quickly become a somewhat messy. So spoil your guests with a moist refreshing towel with a lemony scent. Lightly moisten small cloth or cotton towels and wrap a slice of lemon in each one. Arrange the cloths in a woven basket so that your guests can help themselves after the meal.
How to: Rub the lemon slice on your hands first - this helps to neutralise the intense smell of the crayfish. Then simply wipe your hands clean with the damp cloth. Practical, refreshing - and a charming gesture that will be remembered.
Put out a small woven basket filled with damp washcloths so your guests can freshen up during the party.
Kräftskiva: A Swedish tradition
The crayfish party in Sweden is much more than a culinary experience - it is an expression of friendship and community. The combination of fresh crayfish, communal singing, cheerful decorations and long summer evenings creates an atmosphere that you won't soon forget.
The great thing is that you don't have to travel to Sweden to experience this special atmosphere. You can organise a crayfish party at home. Serve crayfish or alternative summer dishes, decorate the table in Scandinavian style and invite friends or family round for an unforgettable evening. And don't forget: singing schnapps songs is simply part of it.
Photos: Angeliqa Daldorph Nielsen, Sagaform, House Doctor, Klong, @evileer, Hardanger Bestikk, Wik & Walsøe, Dorre
