In this guide, you'll find my top autumn activities in Stockholm, including traditional crayfish parties, Halloween celebrations, autumn markets, and seasonal highlights like apple picking and chanterelle mushroom foraging. Perfect for anyone looking to explore the city’s cultural events and natural beauty during the fall season, all from a local's perspective.

Crayfish Party (Kräftskiva) in Stockholm

A kräftskiva, or crayfish party, is one of Sweden's most beloved traditions, particularly in late summer. This annual celebration is a seafood feast featuring crayfish, accompanied by snaps (Swedish schnapps), festive decorations, and traditional drinking songs. While often hosted in homes, you can experience the kräftskiva in many Stockholm restaurants as well, making it accessible to visitors eager to join the fun.

A Brief History of Kräftskiva

The tradition dates back to the 16th century when crayfish was a delicacy enjoyed by Swedish royalty. By the 1930s, the modern kräftskiva evolved into a widespread celebration, marked by crayfish eating, drinking, and singing. Today, it remains a highlight of Swedish culture, celebrated from early August to September.

Where to Experience Kräftskiva in Stockholm

Sturehof: Sturehof, one of Stockholm’s iconic seafood restaurants, hosts an annual kräftskiva with all the traditional trimmings. Snap up a seat for a festive evening filled with crayfish, snaps, and lively decor.

Debaser Pontonen: For a unique twist, Debaser Pontonen hosts a Crazy Cajun Weekend, blending Swedish crayfish traditions with flavors from the American South. Enjoy a crayfish feast with a Cajun twist in a vibrant setting on the waterfront.

Other Restaurants: Many of Stockholm's finest seafood spots celebrate the crayfish season, including B.A.R., Wedholms Fisk, Tennstopet, and Ulla Winbladh, each offering their own take on the classic Swedish kräftskiva.

Whether you join a party at a restaurant or get invited to a local’s home, experiencing a kräftskiva is a must during your visit to Stockholm in late summer. With delicious crayfish, snaps, and traditional songs, it's a uniquely Swedish way to celebrate the season!

Chanterelle and Mushroom Picking in Stockholm

Autumn is prime time for chanterelle picking in Sweden. These golden mushrooms, often called "the king of mushrooms" or the "forest gold" here, grow abundantly in the forests surrounding Stockholm. Whether you fry them up with butter on a chanterelle toast or toss them into a soap, picking mushrooms is a cherished Swedish pastime.

Chanterelles grow from July to September, popping up in forests all over the country—except for some parts of northern Sweden (Norrland). While you might expect mushroom hunters to be eager to share their spots, Swedes are notoriously secretive about where they find these golden treasures. It’s not uncommon for families to pass down their mushroom-picking locations through generations, keeping them hidden from even their closest friends.

Apple Season in Stockholm

When autumn arrives in Sweden, apple season is in full swing. Swedes have a deep affection for apples, and it’s common to see apple trees in almost every garden. When fall hits, it’s time to harvest these apples and turn them into delicious treats like homemade apple must or apple pie served with vanilla sauce. The love for this fruit is so ingrained in Swedish culture that it even has dedicated festivals and events.

Rosendals Trädgård Apple Weekend in Stockholm

One of the most iconic apple events in Stockholm is the Apple Weekend at Rosendals Trädgård, held at the end of September. Located on Djurgården, this beautiful garden has an orchard that dates back to the 1860s, and apples play a central role in its identity—even featured in the garden’s logo. The whole area celebrates Äppelfest from September 23-30, with the main events happening on the weekend of September 23-24.

During the festival, garden experts showcase the season's harvest and share knowledge about different apple varieties. Visitors can enjoy apple-themed baked goods, fresh apple must, and cider made in collaboration with the Spritmuseum. The wood-fired bakery at Rosendal also offers mouthwatering treats using the apples from their orchard, making this a perfect way to embrace the season.

Best Spa and Sauna in Stockholm

One of the most unique autumn experiences in Stockholm is visiting a sauna in the archipelago or next to a lake. Heat up in the sauna and then cool off in the chilly waters or hot tub. It’s the perfect way to embrace Sweden's sauna culture, especially with friends or family, as you enjoy the serene autumn landscape.Whether you're looking to relax in a luxurious spa or take a refreshing dip in nature, Stockholm offers several great spots:

Yasuragi Hotel: Located in Nacka, Yasuragi is a Japanese-inspired spa hotel offering a serene retreat. With onsens, saunas, and traditional Japanese treatments, it’s the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the peaceful autumn scenery. The outdoor hot springs allow you to soak in the warm water while surrounded by nature, making it a unique escape from the city.

Nynäs Havsbad: For a seaside spa experience, Nynäs Havsbad is a must-visit. Situated on the coast, this spa hotel features beautiful views of the Baltic Sea and offers both indoor and outdoor saunas, as well as an opportunity for a cold dip in the sea. It’s a relaxing and invigorating experience, especially in the cooler autumn months.

Cold Bathing at Hellasgården: If you’re up for a more adventurous experience, Hellasgården in Nacka is a popular spot for cold bathing and saunas. Surrounded by beautiful forest and lakes, you can take a refreshing cold plunge in the lake and warm up in the sauna afterward. It’s a much-loved local tradition and a fantastic way to embrace the crisp autumn air while connecting with nature.

Autumn Markets in Stockholm

Stockholm's city charm only deepens with the arrival of cozy autumn markets. These markets are a perfect blend of local crafts, second-hand treasures, delicious fika, and lively entertainment like music, dance, and art. Whether you’re looking for fresh produce, artisanal crafts, or simply want to enjoy the autumn atmosphere, Stockholm’s autumn markets are a must-visit. Here are some of the best autumn markets to check out this season:

Zetas Trädgårdsmarknad
Where: Blombacken 2, Segeltorp
When: August 24–25, 2024
Known for its beautiful garden setting, Zetas Trädgårdsmarknad offers a wonderful selection of plants, crafts, and home decor items. It's the perfect spot for garden lovers looking for inspiration.

Skördemarknad at Vintervikens Trädgård
Where: Vinterviksvägen 30, Stockholm
When: September 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29, 2024
Set in a lush urban garden, the Vinterviken Harvest Market is a cozy spot to explore local produce, crafts, and enjoy homemade treats. It's an ideal place to sip on warm beverages while browsing for unique finds.

Höstmarknad at Boo Hembygdsgård
Where: Nämdöstigen 2, Saltsjö-bo
When: September 7, 2024
At Boo Hembygdsgård’s Autumn Market, you'll find an assortment of local crafts, baked goods, and seasonal produce. The family-friendly atmosphere makes it a great day out for everyone.

Gamla Enskede Höstmarknad
Where: Stora Gungans väg, Enskede
When: September 14, 2024
This quaint market in Gamla Enskede features local artisans, second-hand treasures, and plenty of food stalls. It’s a great place to pick up unique handcrafted items while enjoying the autumn vibe.

Skördemarknad at Näsby Slott
Where: Djursholmsvägen 30, Täby
When: September 15, 2024
Set in the stunning Näsby Slott, this harvest market features local produce, crafts, and delicious treats in a scenic, historical setting.

Färgfabrikens Höstmarknad
Where: Lövholmsbrinken 1, Stockholm
When: September 28–29, 2024
This arket at the Färgfabriken art space brings together an eclectic mix of crafts, food, and art. It’s the perfect spot for culture lovers and those seeking something unique.

Höstmarknad at Skansen
Where: Djurgårdsslätten 49-51, Stockholm
When: September 28–29, 2024
Skansen’s autumn market is a historic treat, offerig traditional crafts, Swedish delicacies, and entertainment for all ages. It’s a wonderful way to step back in time and enjoy the season’s bounty in Stockholm’s famous open-air museum.

Höstmarknad at Ulriksdal Slott
Where: Slottsallén, Solna
When: October 26–27, 2024
Located at the Ulriksdal Palace, this market is the perfect autumn escape. Browse through a range of handmade goods, local foods, and plants, all while enjoying the serene palace grounds

Kanelbullens Dag (Cinnamon Bun Day)

On October 4th, Sweden celebrates Kanelbullens Dag—Cinnamon Bun Day. Bakeries and cafes across Stockholm will serve fresh, warm cinnamon buns, and it’s the perfect time to indulge in this Swedish classic. Pair it with a coffee or a hot chocolate for a true Swedish fika experience in any of the below cafés:

Tössebageriet (Karlavägen): Established in 1920, Tössebageriet is a beloved bakery and café in Östermalm. This historic spot is a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth for a cinnamon bun.

Café Saturnus (Erisbergsgatan): If you're on the hunt for the biggest cinnamon buns in Stockholm, Café Saturnus is your spot. This charming, French-inspired café is perfect for a leisurely fika or a quick coffee break.

Skeppsbro Bageri (Skeppsbron): Stockholm's best cinnamon bun! You’ll find it at Skeppsbro Bageri!
2024, Thatsup hosted their annual cinnamon bun competition for the 4th year in a row, and out of 34 entries, their 100% organic cinnamon bun took home the top prize.

Lillebrors Bageri (Rörstrandsgatan): Known for its long lines and incredible baked goods, Lillebrors Bageri on Rörstrandsgatan is a must-visit. While seating is limited, it's a great place to grab your delicious cinnamon bun to take home.

Pumpkin Patch at Thorslunda Självplock in Stockholm

One of the most exciting seasonal activities in Sweden is pumpkin patching, and there's no better place to do it than at Thorslunda Självplock. Located outside of Stockholm city, this charming farm opens its fields to visitors eager to pick their own pumpkins straight from the vine.

At Thorslunda, you'll find a variety of pumpkins, from large Halloween pumpkins perfect for carving, to smaller decorative varieties in all shapes and colors. Starting in late September, the farm becomes a pumpkin wonderland, with rows upon rows of gourds ready for picking. Whether you’re looking to decorate for fall, create a spooky jack-o’-lantern, or make a delicious pumpkin soup, Thorslunda has something for everyone.

A Family-Friendly Experience

Pumpkin picking at Thorslunda is a great family outing, and kids will love exploring the fields in search of the perfect pumpkin. The farm also builds a pumpkin world, a display of creatively arranged pumpkins, which adds a fun and festive touch to the experience.

When to Visit Thorslunda for Pumpkin Picking

The pumpkin picking season at Thorslunda usually begins at the end of September and continues through October, with the prime time for picking being around Halloween. In addition to pumpkins, the farm also offers decorative squash and gourds, making it the ideal spot to gather all your autumn décor.

Halloween in Stockholm

If you're in Stockholm during Halloween, you're in for a treat (or a trick!). The city embraces the spooky season with a mix of eerie experiences, from haunted amusement parks to traditional events. Here are some of the best Halloween activities in Stockholm:

Gröna Lund’s Halloween

For a full-throttle Halloween experience, head to Gröna Lund. During the autumn school break, this beloved amusement park transforms into a spine-chilling Halloween festival, filled with haunted houses, creepy characters like zombies, witches, and ghosts, and Halloween-themed roller coasters.

If you prefer a less scary experience, there are also family-friendly sections of the park with pumpkins, autumn decorations, and fun rides. It's the ultimate mix of thrills and festive fun, but make sure to book tickets in advance, as it’s a popular event.

Visit Skogskyrkogården in Stockholm at All Saints’ Day

For a more reflective and traditional experience, visit Skogskyrkogården, Stockholm's famous UNESCO-listed cemetery. Designed by the renowned Swedish architect Gunnar Asplund, it becomes a serene and beautiful place during All Saints' Day, when thousands of people gather to honor loved ones by decorating graves with candles and flowers. The five chapels are open, and hymns and other atmospheric music are played throughout the weekend, making it a peaceful place to spend Halloween.

Halloween Shopping in Stockholm at Butterick’s

For all your Halloween costume needs, Butterick’s is the go-to shop in Stockholm. Located on the bustling Drottninggatan, as well as in Mall of Scandinavia and Täby Centrum, Butterick’s is packed with everything from spooky costumes and wigs to masks, makeup, and fake blood. Whether you want to dress up as a skeleton, witch, ghost, or zombie, this shop has everything to make your Halloween transformation complete.

Explore Stockholm’s Metro Art

On a rainy autumn day, take a journey through Stockholm’s subway art—dubbed the world’s longest art gallery. Stations like Kungsträdgården and Universitetet feature stunning, colorful designs carved into rocky walls, perfect for exploring when the weather turns.

Take a City Walk in Stockholm

A simple yet beautiful way to enjoy autumn in Stockholm is by taking a walk through the city as the leaves change color. Stroll around Djurgården, Gamla Stan, or along the waterfronts to admire the stunning hues of red, orange, and gold.

Monteliusvägen: Stockholm's Hidden Viewpoint

On the northern shore of Södermalm, Monteliusvägen is a 416-meter footpath that offers some of the best views in Stockholm. Overlooking Riddarfjärden and Lake Mälaren, you'll see the Stockholm City Hall, Riddarholmskyrka, and Gamla Stan, with the Royal Palace in the distance. Known for its romantic ambiance, this path is a perfect spot for a peaceful stroll. This experience is doable year-round, so of course, it’s just as lovely in autumn when the vibrant colors enhance the beauty of the views.

Not always marked on maps, Monteliusvägen runs parallel to Bastugatan. To find it, head from Central Station, cross Centralbron, follow Hornsgatan, and then Bellmansgatan until you reach Skolgränd. This hidden gem offers stunning views and tranquility away from the usual tourist spots.

Must-Visit Museums in Stockholm

Stockholm’s museums and art galleries are perfect for a cozy fall activity. Below are some of the most popular ones:

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