The Inauguration of the Gävle Goat

Information

On the first Sunday of Advent, Christmas spirit lights up Gävle as we traditionally inaugurate our world-famous Gävle Goat. Festive activities take place around the city throughout the day.

This year, Joakim Starrin guides us through a magical moment filled with warmth and anticipation. Together with the Lyrical Society’s musical school and GRS – Gävleborg’s Rock Musical Society, the audience is treated to sparkling Christmas atmosphere and music that makes all of Gävle shine. A perfect start to the most heartfelt season of the year.

Join us as Christmas begins in Gävle
On 30 November, Christmas arrives in Gävle with a day full of atmosphere and tradition. The city comes alive as Christmas begins in Gävle and the Gävle Goat is inaugurated at Stortorget – the highlight that marks the start of the festive season.

Throughout the day, you can enjoy a Christmas market in the city centre, pony rides, Christmas crafts at Agnes Cultural Centre, Julkul in Slottsparken, and the unveiling of Sweden’s largest gingerbread house. The day ends at Stortorget with music, cultural awards, and the official inauguration of the Gävle Goat – a tradition that makes the whole city sparkle. Click the link on the right to see the full programme.

16:00 Stage programme, Stortorget
When Christmas begins in Gävle, Stortorget fills with wonderful festive spirit. During the stage programme, the Citizen of the Year is presented and the Gävle Goat is inaugurated in the traditional way. Local artists also perform live music that spreads Christmas joy to all visitors.

Since 1966, the Gävle Goat has stood as a beloved symbol of Christmas for residents and visitors from all over the world. With its impressive size, warm glow and unique history, it has become a sign that the festive season has truly arrived.

The inauguration offers a lovely mix of togetherness, light and anticipation – an evening when we gather to welcome both the Goat and the magical Christmas season. More information about this year’s programme will be updated continuously, but mark the date already and bring family and friends to celebrate the start of Christmas in the heart of Gävle.

Christmas begins in Gävle – and you are invited!