Late August to late September is the time for the traditional crayfish celebration. It’s when Swedes gather round with friends and family to eat and drink to celebrate the first crayfish harvest with a traditional “Kräftskiva”.
A true Swedish tradition
The crayfish party is in fact a a nordic tradition but the actual crayfish party is supposedly originated from Sweden.
It is a tradition that many Swedes are fond of and look forward to each year.
It’s all about the party
The crayfish priemer is legally limited to late August which is when the first crayfish can be harvested.
Since crayfish are quite messy to eat the table is usually set with paper or plastic plates. Common accessories are paper hats, paper table cloths and paper lanterns with crayfish and “man in the moon” printings.
It’s customary to drink “snaps” (Vodka, Akvavit etc.) with the crayfish. Beer and other cold drinks are also commonly served.
Usually the Swedes (myself included) sing “snapsvisor”, which are traditional Swedish songs where the lyrics have been replaced to suit the “crayfish-theme”.
How to cook the crayfish
The crayfish should be boiled in richly salted water, seasoned with fresh dill (preferably harvested after the plant has flowered).
Serve the crayfish cold or semi-cold, with garlic bread, butter, aioli and Västerbotten cheese pie (a strong tasting, salty kind of cheese). Use your fingers and/or a certain crayfish-knife when you eat.
© Petra Roman 2025, PR Text&Bild
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