Valborg (Walpurgis Night) in Uppsala is Sweden’s most legendary spring festival. Every April 30th, the city transforms into a vibrant hub of celebrations with champagne breakfasts, river rafting, family picnics, gasques (formal student dinners), and massive bonfires. Whether you’re a student, a visitor, or a family, there’s something unforgettable waiting for you!
I am born and raised in Uppsala and have celebrated it and the arrival of spring all my life. From bon fires and fireworks as a kid to champaign and dance as a student, pick-nick and family parcs with small children and now many of the activities with larger kids.
Here’s your complete event guide with times, locations, and insider tips for Valborg in Uppsala 2025!
đź“… Main Events During Valborg in Uppsala
🥂 Champagne Breakfasts in the Parks
- Time: From 08:00 AM
- Locations: Mainly Ekonomikum Park, Stadsträdgården, and university lawns.
- Details:
Valborg starts early with the iconic champagne breakfast. Bring a bottle of bubbly, strawberries, snacks, and a picnic blanket. Thousands of locals and visitors gather to toast the arrival of spring together. - Tips:
- Arrive early for the best picnic spots, especially in Ekonomikum Park.
- Dress in layers – mornings can be chilly.
🚣‍♂️ River Rafting (Forsränningen)
- Time: Starts around 10:00 AM
- Location: Fyris River near Stadsträdgården.
- Details:
Watch hilarious homemade rafts take on the rapids! Students build their own floats and bravely ride down the river while crowds cheer them on. - Tips:
- Find a spot by the river well before 10:00 AM for the best views.
- Bring a camera – the floats are incredibly creative!
🥂 Champagne Gallop (Champagnegaloppen)
- Time: From 2:00 PM onwards.
- Locations: At major student nations like Norrlands Nation, Snerikes, and Västgöta Nation.
- Details:
After the rafting, the real party kicks off! During the Champagne Gallop, champagne sprays freely, music pumps, and thousands dance wildly on the nation patios. - Tips:
- Wear clothes you don’t mind getting drenched.
- Some nations require tickets – check early!
🧺 Family-Friendly Picnics and BBQs
- Time: All day
- Locations: Stadsträdgården, Botanical Garden, Ekonomikum Park (large but filled with noisy and drunk students).
- Details:
Families can enjoy a calmer Valborg with picnics, barbecues, and nature walks. Some areas also organize children’s activities like face painting and games. - Tips:
- Bring your own grill or check if public grills are available.
- Plan ahead – parks get crowded by noon.
🎩 Gasques (Formal Dinners)
- Time: Evening (from 6:00 PM onwards)
- Location: Various student nations around Uppsala.
- Details:
A gasque is a traditional Swedish student formal featuring a dinner, singing, and often hilarious performances. It’s the perfect cultural immersion for those wanting the full Valborg experience. - Tips:
- Book tickets early – they sell out weeks in advance.
- Dress code: formal (suits, gowns, or traditional dress).
🔥 Bonfires and Spring Speeches
- Time: Around 9:00 PM
- Locations:
- Gamla Uppsala Högar (Old Uppsala Mounds)
- Ekolnsnäs
- Various smaller community bonfires.
- Details:
In the evening, Valborg culminates with the lighting of traditional bonfires and emotional spring speeches celebrating renewal and community. - Tips:
- Bring a flashlight and warm clothing.
- Many places also have choirs singing classic spring songs.
🗺️ Full Valborg 2025 Timeline in Uppsala
| Time | Event | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 08:00 | Champagne Breakfast | Ekonomikum Park, Stadsträdgården |
| 10:00 | River Rafting (Forsränningen) | Fyris River |
| 14:00 | Champagne Gallop | Student Nations |
| 11:00 onward | Family Picnics and BBQs | Stadsträdgården, Botanical Garden |
| 18:00 onward | Gasques | Student Nations |
| 21:00 | Bonfires and Spring Speeches | Gamla Uppsala Högar, Ekolnsnäs |
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🌸 Tips for First-Time Valborg Visitors
1. Plan Ahead:
Book accommodations and event tickets at least two months in advance.
2. Dress Smart:
Pack layers, raincoats, and comfortable shoes. Expect champagne showers!
3. Stay Safe:
Stick with friends, watch your belongings, and drink responsibly.
4. Respect Local Customs:
Remember, many families and older citizens also celebrate Valborg. Keep festivities fun and respectful.
đźš— How to Get to Uppsala for Valborg
- From Stockholm:
- Train: 40 minutes from Stockholm Central Station.
- Car: 50-minute drive via E4 highway.
- From Arlanda Airport:
- Bus 801 or direct trains to Uppsala in under 30 minutes.
Pro Tip:
Public transport runs extra services during Valborg, but expect crowds!
🏨 Where to Stay in Uppsala During Valborg
- Luxury: Grand Hotell Hörnan or Villa Anna
- Mid-range: Clarion Hotel Gillet
- Budget: Vandrarhem Uppsala Centralstation (Hostel)
Tip:
Book by January–February, as hotels fill up quickly!
đź“š Useful Resources for Valborg Planning
- Visit Uppsala – Official Tourism Site
- Uppsala Municipality Valborg Information
- Uppsala University Nations Info
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