Jun 06, 2019
Sweden National Day 2019
This Doodle’s Key Themes
Sweden celebrates its National Day today in commemoration of King Gustav Vasa’s 1523 coronation, an event that marked the beginning of Swedish independence. Three centuries later, June 6th was also the day when Sweden’s Instrument of Government was adopted, a document that forms a key part of the Scandinavian country’s constitution. Today is also the time for new citizens to receive their official documents, welcoming them to Sweden.
Also known as Svenska Flaggans Day, the occasion is marked by parades and marching bands, with the Swedish royal family appearing at Skansen, Stockholm’s open-air entertainment park and museum. As the blue and yellow flag is raised with great ceremony, children in traditional costumes present the King and Queen with flowers.
The colors of the flag are inspired by the Swedish coat of arms—blue symbolizes truth and justice, while yellow represents generosity. Pale yellow elderflowers bloom in early summer, and many Swedes use their delicate blossoms to make fläderblomssaft, a sweet syrup often enjoyed with champagne on special occasions such as today.
Glad nationaldag, Sverige!
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