It’s been an especially snowy winter on the East Coast of the United States this year, giving us all a taste of the climate this time of year in Sweden. With Valentine’s Day soon approaching, we could all use the warmth of a sweet holiday amid the winter chill. Here at Sweetish we try to approach every holiday from a cross-cultural perspective, and Valentine’s Day is no different. This year, join us in celebrating the hygge way!
Alla Hjärtans Dag (All Hearts Day) began in Sweden in the 1950s as a retail holiday inspired by America's Valentine’s Day. The holiday only became more popular in the 1980s and 90s. Taking a cue from America, it’s customary to give gifts such as flowers and sweets accompanied by tender notes with phrases such as “Jag älskar dig” (I love you) or “jag gillar dig” (I like you). Lovers brave the cold for a romantic dinner on the town, or stay in for a cozy homemade candle-lit dinner.
This day isn’t just for romantic partners, it’s also for giving gifts to parents, children, teachers, and friends. One might give a gift of candy to a close friend with a note that says “världens bästa kompis” (the world’s best friend). In fact, candy, like in America, is one of the most popular gifts for February 14th. Candy and chocolate sales increase in the month of February as much as 90%! The most commonly gifted sweets are heart shaped gummies. Good thing Sweetish has a variety of heart shaped options for you to gift your loved ones on Alla Hjärtan’s Dag this year!
Keep it simple for your friends and family with the Sweetish Signature Valentine’s Mix, a ½lb of Sugared Hearts, Giant Hearts, or Sour Blue Raspberry Gummy Hearts. Ready to go big for your lovebird? Build a gift basket with special treats like the Skandypop Chocolate Covered Strawberry lollipops, the 23oz Jelly Bean Planet Heart Jar, and the 90g The Mallows: Raspberry Hearts. However you gift Sweetish treats this February 14th, make sure to let your loved ones know how you feel the Swedish way!
Shop in store at our downtown location on North Queen St. or at our new location on Granite Run Drive in Lancaster, PA. If you can’t get in before the 14th, order online anytime at sweetishcandy.com!
From all of us at Sweetish, Glad Alla Hjärtan’s Dag!
