For many Swedes, Våffeldagen means the beginning of spring. Saturday the 25th is Annunciation Day of the Virgin Mary – in Swedish Jungfru Marie Bebådelsedag or Vårfrudagen.  The word Våffeldagen is a mispronunciation of ‘Vårfrudagen’ and 25 March is now established as a day when Swedes traditionally serve ‘Våfflor’ (Waffles). Swedes have been eating våfflor since at least the early 1600s and they are often served with jam and whipped cream or ice cream. And what better way to celebrate the beginning of spring than with våfflor!  Unlike Belgian waffles, they are made without yeast, which makes them thinner.  Electric waffle makers can easily be purchased in the shops and are quite inexpensive. You will find good waffle mixes selling in the supermarkets but you can also make your own using the recipe from ToStockholm.

This time of the year we also change to Daylight Saving Time, so don’t forget to put your clocks forward one hour on Sunday!