Ever since I applied to Uppsala University, Valborg kept coming up whenever people were talking about what makes Uppsala so special. The vibe I got was: “Winter may be brutal, but Valborg makes up for it!” So, naturally, when I arrived, I immediately asked some senior students what it was all about. The response left me a little stunned: apparently, Valborg celebrations can stretch from one day to however many you want, and people celebrated by partying like there was no tomorrow (think non-stop drinking). Suddenly, all the excitement I had built up started to deflate. I thought to myself, “Okay, maybe this isn’t quite for me,” and I felt a little bit of disappointment.

Fast forward to spring, and now that I’ve lived through my first Valborg, I can wholeheartedly say: it was incredible! A true celebration for anyone who loves joy, togetherness, and a good dose of festivity.

Coming from a crowded city myself, I found it heartwarming to see Uppsala so alive. The normally quiet streets were buzzing with students, families, and visitors. People gathered in parks with food, music, and laughter. And as someone who doesn’t drink, I never once felt like I was missing out. I felt part of something joyful and uniquely Swedish.

It’s certainly true, Valborg brings with it plenty of student parties and bubbly breakfasts. And if that’s your thing, you’ll have a blast. But there’s also a whole world of other activities to enjoy, whether you’re a non-partier, a family, or just someone who loves a lively atmosphere without the nightlife. Most of the intense partying happens in the nations in the days before Valborg itself, during themed pre-celebrations like Kvalborg and Skvalborg. Those might not have been my cup of tea, but the day of Valborg offered a whole variety of activities where I felt completely at ease.

We kicked off the day with the boat races along the river, and it was such a wholesome start! The creativity people poured into their boat designs was incredible, and the crowd’s energy, cheering everyone on, made it feel like a true community celebration. Afterward, we headed to the bustling food truck area in Ekonomikum Park (I honestly didn’t know Sweden had that many people!) and enjoyed a picnic with music and good company. Then we walked to the Carolina Rediviva for the iconic cap ceremony, and I’ve never seen a more dramatic (and joyful) welcome to spring. Later in the day, two Swedish friends opened their doors to us for a traditional dinner. Their gesture of sharing food together felt beautifully familiar and reminded me of how we celebrate back home. If you ask me, Valborg, at its heart, is really about togetherness.

Valborg showed me a different side of Uppsala: one that’s spirited, inclusive, and full of life. It reminded me that celebrations don’t have to look one specific way, they can be what you make of them! Even if you’re unsure whether Valborg is your thing, I’d still say: go for it! It’s one of those experiences you just shouldn’t miss. My tip? Maybe skip the pre-parties if they’re not your vibe, but definitely don’t miss Valborg day itself!