A Swedish crayfish party isn’t just a dinner it’s an end-of-summer tradition filled with laughter, music, and a bit of joyful chaos. From piles of dill-covered crayfish to silly hats and loud singing, it’s a celebration that combines food, friendship, and fun in equal measure. Here’s your complete guide to planning, decorating, and hosting a kräftskiva everyone will remember.

Prepare the Menu: Crayfish & Other Fixings

The heart of any kräftskiva is, of course, the crayfish. Whether you’re starting from fresh or pre-cooked, the goal is the same: bring out their best flavor and serve them in style. If you’re cooking them yourself, boil in well-salted water with plenty of fragrant dill, then let them rest in the brine so the flavors deepen. If you’ve got pre-cooked crayfish, simply defrost them in the fridge until fully chilled, drain, and pile them high on a platter with a generous scatter of fresh dill for that classic Swedish touch.

When it comes to sides, think simple but satisfying. Fresh bread or crispbread with butter is a must, and a good cheese whether sharp and tangy or mild and creamy pairs beautifully with the crayfish. A crisp green salad adds freshness, while a slice of cheese pie or a small dish of boiled shrimp offers an alternative for guests who want a little variety. The key is not to overcomplicate the menu this is a meal meant for laughter, songs, and savoring the bright, briny taste of summer.

Decorations & Ambiance: Lanterns, Lights, and Atmosphere

The Iconic Lanterns

No kräftskiva is complete without the traditional paper lanterns—especially the smiling “Man-in-the-Moon” lanterns that have become a symbol of the event. String them above the table along with fairy lights for a cozy glow.

Table Décor

Cover your table with a paper or plastic cloth for easy cleanup. If you can find crayfish-themed napkins and plates, all the better. Scatter fresh dill down the center and add candles or small lights for warmth.

Outdoor Setting (with a Plan B)

Host outdoors if possible to enjoy the late-summer air and lantern light. Always have a backup plan for rain or mosquitoes—like an indoor setup or a canopy. Bug spray or citronella candles are worth having on hand.

Music & Mood

Play a mix of Swedish classics (ABBA is always a crowd-pleaser) and traditional snapsvisor recordings. Appoint a toastmaster to lead the songs and toasts for a lively atmosphere.

Dress Code & Accessories: Bibs, Funny Hats, and More

At a crayfish party, silliness is part of the charm.

Bibs & Hats

Provide each guest with a crayfish-printed bib and a funny hat—traditionally conical paper hats or headbands with crayfish designs. The quirkiness comes from a century-old joke about high society and is now a lighthearted tradition.

Clothing Advice

Tell guests to wear casual, comfortable clothes they don’t mind getting messy. A light sweater for cooler nights is wise if you’re outside.

Extra Accessories

Place napkins, paper towels, and shellfish crackers on the table. Seafood picks are optional, but handy for stubborn claws.

Table & Seating Arrangements

Communal Tables

Arrange one large table or several pushed together to encourage conversation and singing. Give each guest enough elbow room for shell cracking and piling shells.

Shell Disposal

Place large bowls or buckets along the table for discarded shells, and empty them regularly to avoid smells.

Lighting

Ensure there’s enough light to eat by—lanterns for mood, candles for warmth, and possibly extra lamps to see the plates.

Indoor Backup

If weather forces you inside, keep the same festive décor and energy going.

It’s Messy Fun: Eating & Etiquette

Hands-On Dining

Eating crayfish is hands-on—pick up a crayfish, sip the briny juice, peel the tail, and crack the claws for the meat. Demonstrate for newcomers and encourage slurping—it’s considered proper etiquette here!

Napkins & Clean-Up

Keep bibs on, napkins close, and wet wipes available. Some hosts provide finger bowls with lemon water for quick clean-ups.

Pace Yourself

Kräftskiva meals are slow and social—eat, chat, sing, and enjoy the evening without rushing.

Tool Safety

Use shell crackers for tough claws instead of teeth—your dentist will thank you.

Skål! Drinks and Singing the Snapsvisor

Aquavit & Beer

Traditional crayfish party drinks include aquavit (served ice-cold in small shots) and beer. Always have non-alcoholic options too, like elderflower juice or mocktails.

Song & Toast Ritual

Before each shot, sing a short drinking song such as Helan Går. Hand out lyric sheets so everyone can join in. Raise your glass, make eye contact, shout “Skål!”, and drink together.

Pacing the Party

Space out the songs and toasts so everyone enjoys the fun without overdoing it.

Pro Tips & Commonly Forgotten Details

Double your napkin supply—you’ll need them.

Have wet wipes or lemon water bowls for sticky fingers.

Chill all drinks well ahead of time.

Test lighting before guests arrive.

Print song sheets in advance.

Defrost crayfish early—never at room temperature.

Provide plenty of serving platters and tools.

Dispose of shells promptly after the party to avoid smells.

Enjoy the Moment

A crayfish party is all about joy, laughter, and not taking yourself too seriously. Wear your hat, sing loudly, crack shells with abandon, and don’t stress if things get a little chaotic. After all, the heart of a kräftskiva lies in its mix of tradition, playfulness, and togetherness.

So raise your glass, shout Skål!, and enjoy one of Sweden’s most beloved summer traditions.