Jun 06, 2017
Sweden National Day 2017
This Doodle’s Key Themes
Today's Doodle celebrates Sweden’s National Day and colorful folk history with a hurrah for the Dalahäst (Dala horse) — the red horse with the flowery harness, known worldwide as a symbol of Sweden.
Originally a simple toy carved by the people of the Dalarna region, the horse was widely sold at village fairs by the 19th century and was even used for bartering. When artisans started to paint the toys, the local Falun copper mines gave the horse its iconic rusty red color. Today, the Dala horse features a harness of white, yellow, blue, and green in the traditional kurbits style — the myth-inspired floral art used in handicrafts from the Dalarna region.
Visitors to Sweden can find the Dalahäst everywhere. It spreads joyful color and pays tribute to the magnificent animals that carried Swedes on their way to building the proud nation they celebrate today.
Glad Nationaldag, Sweden!!
Where this Doodle appeared
Discover more Doodles by color
Did you know?
The very first Doodle launched as an “out of office” message of sorts when company founders Larry and Sergey went on vacation.
Learn MoreDid you know?
The first Doodle launched in 1998, before Google was officially incorporated.
Learn MoreDid you know?
The first same day Doodle was created in 2009 when water was discovered on the moon.
Learn MoreDid you know?
Doodle for Google student contest winners have gone on to become professional artists
Learn MoreDid you know?
The time it takes from sketch to launch for a Doodle varies widely: some have taken years and others just a few hours!
Learn MoreDid you know?
Hundreds of Doodles launch around the world every year. Often, several different ones are live in different places at the same time!
Learn MoreDid you know?
Our most frequently recurring Doodle character is Momo the Cat - named after a real-life team pet!
Learn More