Say what? This is spring break in Sweden?

Spring break in Sweden is kind of tricky. As the climate is so different, spring break in Sweden is kind of like a winter holiday. Have you heard of Sportlov? In Sweden, spring break happens in Sportlov. For most Swedish schoolchildren, the end of February (or the beginning of March) is synonymous with sportlov, or the annual sports vacation. It happens in different weeks in different parts of Sweden.

Where did this holiday come from? Back in the days of WWII when resources like coal and food were limited, the Swedish government established this holiday to keep the kids at their houses for a whole week to decrease the need for public heating in schools. Later during the 50s, sanitary arguments came to support this leave during late winter; this was due to the risk of spreading infections during that time of year, so basically, it was practical to close the schools for a short time.

Since this "spring break" is a special one-week holiday for kids all around Sweden to enjoy the last piece of cold during the season and do some winter sports. A lot of Swedish parents and children are enjoying this break from school either by going up North to the slopes and skiing or staying at home to enjoy what the municipalities had to offer. There're plenty of ski resorts in Sweden where you can enjoy different ski pistes and views.

If you prefer to stay in the city and still have a taste of the sports vacation feeling. Public ice-skating rinks are plentiful and accessible in Stockholm. Stockholm also has several sled slopes and slopes perfect for downhill skiing or snowboarding. You can also try winter swimming, outdoor cafés, hiking trails, guided tours for sightseeing or take a nature tour, or winter kayaking.

Can you imagine that? Spring break in Sweden is like a winter holiday. When people in the south enjoy the greens during spring break, kids and parents are playing with white snow in the north. As long as we are all happy, either green or white doesn't really matter during spring break, does it?