Hosting a Crayfish Party Unprepared: The Story of Northvolt Sweden
Sweden's kräftskivor, or crayfish parties, are a cherished tradition that marks the summer season, even during the festive occasion of midsommar. These gatherings, often adorned with lanterns and paper hats, bring friends and family together for a feast of cold crayfish, bread, cheese, and schnapps [1][3][5].
The etiquette of a kräftskiva is steeped in tradition. Guests are expected to arrive on time, bringing a small gift, and to eat their food calmly and respectfully. Singing traditional Swedish drinking songs is a key part of the festivities, with guests often wearing whimsical paper hats provided at the party [3][5].
However, a recent crayfish party took an unexpected turn when one of the crayfish tasted unusual, leading to a lively debate during dinner. The author of this article had inadvertently left their crayfish out to defrost, leading to a potential food safety issue. Fortunately, no one at the party fell ill, but the incident served as a reminder to the author to be more careful [2].
In a bid to avoid detection, the author even resorted to burying the defrosted crayfish at the back of the fridge. The woman who complained about the taste of the crayfish eventually left the party early. There has been a debate in the comments about whether the author should have confessed and ended the party early [4].
Meanwhile, in the world of Swedish business, Northvolt, a battery company, has found a rescuer in US battery start-up Lyten. Lyten has agreed to buy almost all of Northvolt's remaining assets and restart its factory in Skellefteå and research laboratory in Västerå [6].
Elsewhere, three free music and culture festivals are happening in Stockholm, Gothenburg, and Malmö in the coming weeks, offering a chance for Swedes and foreigners alike to immerse themselves in the country's vibrant culture [7].
For foreigners attending a kräftskiva, learning a few simple snapsvisor (drinking songs) is a good way to participate in the drinking rituals. Using a bib and crayfish fork properly can also help avoid messiness. It's important to be punctual and bring a small appropriate gift, and to respect the Swedish custom of waiting quietly before eating [1].
A recent op-ed by Eric Peterson, a computer programmer turned citizenship campaigner, highlights the incompatibility of tightening citizenship rules with Sweden's need to attract high-skilled labor [8]. The Migration Agency has carried out 3,500 'in-person appearances' as the final stage in a citizenship application [9].
Despite the occasional hiccup, kräftskivor remain a symbol of Swedish traditions of enjoyment, community, and respect for seasonal food [1][3][5].
- A kräftskiva is not just about the food and drinks, but also involves singing traditional Swedish drinking songs and wearing paper hats.
- The etiquette of a kräftskiva includes arriving on time, bringing a small gift, eating calmly and respectfully, and for foreigners, learning a few simple snapsvisor (drinking songs).
- In the world of Swedish business, Northvolt, a battery company, found a rescuer in US battery start-up Lyten, avoiding potential closure of its factory and research laboratory.
- In Sweden, foreigners attending a kräftskiva should also be aware of the Swedish custom of waiting quietly before eating, and learn to use a crayfish fork properly to avoid messiness.
