12 of the best festivals in Sweden you can’t miss in 2025

Sweden is a land of striking landscapes, rich traditions, and world-class music. It also hosts a variety of cultural festivals that showcase local traditions, music, and community spirit.

And when it comes to festivals, 2025 is shaping up to be nothing short of epic.

Whether you’re into electronic beats, cultural gems, or rock legends, this guide will help you plan the perfect festival experience by covering the highlights of the festival calendar.

Dance, Feast, and Celebrate: The Top Festivals in Sweden You’ll Want on Your 2025 Bucket List

Get ready to explore Sweden through its most vibrant celebrations. From firelit forests to city streets, these events spotlight the country's most unmissable moments of music and culture.

Eksjö Stadsfest

29–30 August | Eksjö, Småland Region

Eksjö Stadsfest 29-30 augusti 2025

Sa., 30. Aug., 00:00 • Eksjö Torg, SE

Imagine partying in a historic town center surrounded by 18th-century buildings - Eksjö Stadsfest makes that dream real.

This two-day cultural festival takes over the streets of Eksjö with music, street food, theatre performances, and a whole lot of heart. You’ll hear everything from jazz and soul to pop and electronic beats, performed on stages set right in the middle of town squares.

Don’t miss the art exhibitions, food trucks with traditional foods, and surprise dance acts tucked into alleyways. The festival draws visitors from across the region to Eksjö. It’s where small-town charm meets big-city vibes.

Stockholm Roots Festival

22–23 August | Central Stockholm

22-24/8 STOCKHOLM ROOTS FESTIVAL

22.–24. Aug. • Debaser Strand, SE

Sweden meets soul in the city at Stockholm Roots Festival.

This late summer celebration is all about good vibes and authentic sounds. Set in central Stockholm, the festival blends reggae, soul, funk, and blues across multiple intimate stages, turning the capital into a roots music playground.

You’ll find food stalls, craft vendors, and a laid-back crowd that’s as passionate about rhythm as it is about community. Whether you're grooving to legendary roots icons or discovering your next favourite band, this is where Stockholm truly vibes out.

Looking for a warm beat in the heart of the city? This one hits just right.

South Ocean Festival

30 August | Malmö, Southern Coast

South Ocean Festival 2025

29.–30. Aug. • Sibbarp, SE

Sunset, sea breeze, and speakers shaking the sand - welcome to South Ocean Festival.

Held along Malmö’s scenic coastline, this one-day music festival delivers a premium lineup of pop, electronic, and indie acts in a seaside setting. Think beach rave meets boutique curation, with world-class performers and waterfront views.

Expect dancing on the sand, food trucks serving local street eats, and a crowd ready to squeeze every last drop of summer out of August. Whether you’re there for the music or the magical golden-hour views, South Ocean will leave you glowing.

Don’t forget your shades - this one's as bright as it gets.

Stockholm Jazz Festival

10–19 October | Stockholm, Sweden

Looking for smooth sounds and cultural flair? Add this one to your autumn must-dos.

The Stockholm Jazz Festival is one of Europe’s longest-running jazz events – and it’s still setting the bar. Held across iconic venues like Fasching, Kulturhuset, and Konserthuset, this city-wide festival blends classic jazz with experimental sounds, funk, soul, and global fusion.

The vibe? Intimate yet electric. Whether you're into big band orchestras or late-night underground sets, the energy is unmatched. Expect Grammy-winning legends, up-and-coming Scandinavian artists, and surprise collaborations in candlelit rooms. It’s a jazz lover’s paradise, but also perfect for anyone curious about Sweden’s rich music scene.

Want a mellow moment between the summer raves and winter chill? Stockholm Jazz delivers.

Goran Kajfeš Subtropic Arkestra | Stockholm Jazz Festival 2025

Fr., 10. Okt., 23:00 • Fasching, SE

Missed it? Set a ticket alert for 2026! Future you will thank you...

Brännbollsyran Festival

This is what happens when sports, music, and a whole lot of summer energy come together.

Held in northern Sweden every June, Brännbollsyran starts as a quirky sports tournament and ends as a full-blown music festival. Expect massive outdoor stages, world-renowned DJs, and 15,000+ people partying under the midnight sun.

You'll be dancing in fields, sipping local brews, and losing yourself in headliners that span pop, EDM, and rock. Oh, and did we mention the nightly fireworks? This one’s not for the faint of heart - bring your crew and your stamina.

Classic Kalaset

If you’re after feel-good tunes, tasty eats, and a relaxed vibe - Classic Kalaset is it.

Held in several cities throughout Sweden, this festival brings together adults, children, and everyone in between. Classic Kalaset is especially known for its joyful gatherings, creating memorable moments of social connection. The lineup leans into nostalgic pop, Swedish classics, and upbeat rock that gets the whole crowd singing.

Expect fairground rides, sing-alongs, and many restaurants serving crowd-pleasing bites. It’s more of a celebration than a rave, and ideal for festival first-timers looking for a laid-back intro to the Swedish festival scene.

Way Out West

Every list of the top festivals in Sweden starts here. And for good reason.

Taking over Gothenburg in early August, Way Out West fuses music, sustainability, and art into one immersive experience. Set in the lush Slottsskogen park, the lineup regularly features international artists from genres like electronic music, rock, and hip-hop.

But it’s not just about the beats. You’ll find panels, film screenings, and some of the best food trucks in the country. It's a festival for music lovers who care about both sound and the planet.

Want to dance under the trees with artists like Fred again.. or Robyn? This is your scene.

Amaze Festival

Looking for sleek vibes and high-end sound design? Amaze is calling your name.

This boutique electronic music festival blends stunning visuals with curated lineups that always surprise. Think deep house, techno, and ambient sets in dreamy Swedish settings.

Held in August, Amaze includes creative workshops, immersive art installations, and open-air stages that light up the countryside. It’s a more intimate experience - ideal for festivalgoers who crave connection over chaos.

Come for the music, stay for the artistry.

Department Festival

Tucked into industrial corners of central Stockholm, Department is Sweden’s answer to the Berlin rave scene.

Expect heavy-hitting EDM, edgy visuals, and lineups stacked with local and international artists. The festival takes place in early summer, attracting a tight-knit crowd that’s all about the beats.

Bonfire Festival

When Swedes celebrate Midsummer’s Eve, they do it with flower crowns, dancing, and… flames. This deep-rooted tradition is a cornerstone of Swedish culture, bringing communities together to honor their heritage.

The Bonfire Festival turns this beloved Swedish celebration into an electrifying music and fire show experience. Held in July, this event combines folklore with modern beats, lighting up the night with flaming sculptures, torch parades, and pyrotechnic art.

Alive Festival

This one’s a hidden gem - and that’s what makes it special.

The Alive Festival takes place each summer in the medieval town of Borlänge, where cobblestone streets meet punchy pop-rock stages. It’s cozy, yet explosive. Expect concerts from emerging Scandinavian stars and global names alike.

Held in July, it’s perfect for travelers who want both history and heart-thumping soundtracks. Come early to explore the town’s old churches and stay late for the late-night DJ sets.

Bayside Festival

Sun, sea, and speakers cranked to eleven - that’s Bayside.

Hosted on the coast in Helsingborg, this summer festival is known for its energetic crowd, waterfront stage, and A-list headliners. Whether you’re grooving to EDM, hip-hop, or indie, Bayside delivers party vibes with a splash of salty air.

It’s a multi-day beach rave, so come with your group, dance barefoot in the sand, and enjoy epic sunsets between sets. For fans of good music and great weather, this is one of the most iconic festivals in Sweden.

FAQ – Festivals in Sweden 2025

1. What are the major festivals in Sweden?

Way Out West, DreamHack, Brännbollsyran, and Department Festival are among the biggest events of 2025.

2. What is the biggest celebration in Sweden?

Midsummer’s Eve is arguably the biggest cultural celebration, marked by dancing, food, and bonfires across the country. This festival often falls on a Friday, making it a long weekend of festivities.

3. What are the popular holidays in Sweden?

Lucia Day, Christmas Eve, Midsummer, Easter, and New Year’s Day (also referred to as Year's Day) are all widely celebrated with parades, feasts, and music.

4. Is DreamHack only about gaming?

Nope! It also features electronic music, live events, and cultural workshops.

5. What’s the best festival for families in Sweden?

Classic Kalaset is ideal for all ages, with kid-friendly concerts, games, and food.

6. What is the Stockholm Jazz Festival?

It is a historic and prominent music show held in October. It attracts both local and international jazz artists and is one of Europe’s longstanding jazz festivals.

7. What should I know about festival venues in Sweden?

Venues in Sweden are known for their accessibility, with many located near public transport and offering nearby accommodations. This makes it easy for festivalgoers to plan their visit and enjoy the events.

8. What should I pack for festivals in Sweden?

It’s recommended to bring a rain jacket due to unpredictable weather, especially during summer festivals.

Ready to Discover the Best of Sweden?

There’s no better way to experience Swedish culture than through its festivals. From summer beach raves to snowy candlelit traditions, festivals in Sweden offer something for every kind of traveler. So whether you're craving music, magic, or memories, 2025 is your year to dive in - see you in the crowd.