Don't miss our upcoming virtual lecture on John Ericsson and the USS Monitor by John Quarstein - 11/7!

Lucia Fest and Christmas Market

Light, warmth and Christmas songs have been hallmarks of the Lucia celebration at ASHM since 1939. Each year families pour through the magnificent bronze doors of the museum to be greeted by the aroma of freshly baked pastries, meatball dishes and strong Swedish coffee. Stroll through the Christmas Market, or Julmarknad, where Swedish delicacies, crafts, decorations, and imported gifts may be purchased, before the musical entertainment begins. The Swedish Christmas Café will be selling your favorite sweet and savory holiday foods and the SWEA bakery tables will be open all day.

Julbord

Join us for a very special Swedish holiday tradition. An authentic Christmas smorgasbord dinner is followed by the Lucia procession. The Christmas Market is open all evening. Members $55, non-members $65, children $25. Cash bar. Online registration is closed, to register call Lauren at 215-389-1776 ext 106, deadline is December 4th.

Lucia Rehearsals

Museum members are invited to have their children and grandchildren participate in our annual Lucia performances on December 6th and 7th . They are sure to have fun dressing up as tomtar, pepparkakor, folk dancers, star boys, and Lucia and her attendants while singing traditional Swedish Christmas songs. Attendance at both rehearsals is required. Sign up online, by phone or in person.

New Sweden History Conference

The New Sweden History Conference is a day-long exploration of the life and legacy of the New Sweden Colony (1638-1655). This year’s topic celebrates the 320th anniversary of Holy Trinity (Old Swedes) Church in Wilmington and the ways in which this church has kept Swedish heritage alive in Delaware. Speakers include experts in church’s furniture and furnishings, early church graffiti, and its Swedish pastors. Following the conference, attendees have the option to meet at Holy Trinity for a behind-the-scenes tour of one of America’s oldest churches. 

Upcycled Craft Fair

Discover the many ways of creative reuse at this special museum craft fair! Local artists and craft vendors will show how they have taken “reduce, reuse, and recycle” to the next level. Take the opportunity to do some early holiday shopping while doing something good for the planet. You might even find inspiration for your own creativity. $5 craft fair admission, free for children under 12. Admission includes access to the museum. 

World Cup Watch Party: Sweden vs. The Netherlands

Sweden's quest to win the World Cup continues and in the semi-final they take on The Netherlands, for what can only be described as a colonial shakedown. Will Sweden once again lose to the Dutch like they did in New Sweden in 1655, or will Sweden prove to be better team and not walk in the footsteps of their forefathers? Head on over to the American Swedish Historical Museum to watch all of the action as some of the greatest soccer players in the world battle it out.

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