As the first Sunday of Advent approaches, lights are lit, the scent of mulled wine fills the air, and Gävle transforms into a sparkling winter wonderland. Christmas begins in Gävle – with the inauguration of the Gävle Goat and a day filled with music, markets, and magical experiences for the whole family.
Christmas begins in Gävle
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.
12:00–18:00 Christmas market in the City Centre
On the first Sunday of Advent, Gävle transforms into a glittering winter wonderland! The streets fill with the scents, music, and lights of Christmas as the city’s big Christmas market invites everyone to share joy and togetherness. Discover local crafts, unique gifts, and delicious treats. Meet Santa, breathe in the scent of mulled wine, and enjoy the glow of the Christmas lights across the city.
At 13.00 and 14.15, Marcus and Michaela will be singing at the Christmas market.
12:30–14:00 Pony trotting
When Christmas begins in Gävle on the first Sunday of Advent, children can enjoy a magical experience – pony trotting right in the city centre! The riding school’s students guide children who want to try sitting in a pony trotting sulky. Come and meet the friendly ponies and feel the Christmas spirit.
11:00–14:00 Christmas crafts at Agnes cultural centre
Welcome to a creative moment at Agnes Cultural Centre! Here, children can unleash their imagination and make their own decorations, cards, and small gifts – all in a cosy Christmas atmosphere. No booking required, just drop in and get creative together.
13:00–16:00 Julkul in Slottsparken
Enjoy a cosy afternoon for the whole family when Julkul in Slottsparken invites everyone to share warmth and Christmas cheer! Make crafts together, enjoy the scent of open fires, and try the scouts’ freshly grilled kolbullar and sausages.
14:00 Sweden’s largest gingerbread house at Gävleborg county museum
When Christmas begins in Gävle, the impressive gingerbread house at Gävleborg County Museum is unveiled – a cherished tradition filled with creativity and Christmas spirit. Come and marvel at this fantastic piece of craftsmanship, a highlight for visitors of all ages.
16:00 Stage programme at Stortorget
The start of Christmas in Gävle brings a wonderful festive atmosphere to Stortorget. During the stage programme, the Gävle Resident of the Year is presented, and The Gävle Goat is officially inaugurated. Joakim Starrin, together with the Lyrical Society and the Gävleborg Rock Musical Society, also offers live music that spreads Christmas cheer to all visitors.
- At 14.30–15.00 there will be a choir performance by the Gävle Goat.
Ice rink in the city centre
Don’t miss our charming ice rink open on the first Sunday of Advent, right in the heart of Gävle, in front of the Gävle Goat. Bring family and friends for a joyful time on the ice and soak up the Christmas atmosphere in the centre of the city.
- At 14.00–16.00 Father Christmas and Mrs Claus will be meeting visitors by the ice rink.
Christmas spirit all the way to Christmas
When the Gävle Goat is lit, a whole season of festive experiences begins in Gävle and Gästrikland. Here you’ll find charming Christmas markets, traditional Christmas buffets, and cosy activities that keep the holiday spirit alive.
Enjoy a Christmas weekend in Gävle with shopping, delicious food, and beautifully lit streets. Discover the Christmas markets at the historic ironworks and in the villages – from Högbo to Axmar – where the scent of pine and handmade crafts meets tradition and togetherness.
Christmas in Gävle offers both beloved traditions and new experiences – perfect for anyone wanting to enjoy the genuine, sparkling, and heartfelt Gästrikland in the spirit of Christmas.
