Anna's Day, marks the day to start the preparation process of thelutefiskto be consumed onChristmas Eve, as well as aSwedish name day, celebrating all people named Anna. (SwedenandFinland)
Anna's Day on December 9 marks the traditional start of lutefisk preparation for Christmas Eve in Sweden and Finland, and it is celebrated as a Swedish and Finnish name day honoring everyone named Anna.
This Scandinavian tradition dates back centuries as households begin preparing lutefisk—a salted, dried fish dish—on December 9 to allow time for curing before Christmas Eve feasts. Originally rooted in rural Swedish and Finnish communities, the custom held both practical and social significance. Over time, the day also became a name day celebration honoring all women named Anna. In Sweden and Finland, name days are an occasion for giving small gifts and well-wishes, similar to birthdays. As the Christmas season unfolds, families gather to share stories and maintain culinary heritage. Anna's Day thus bridges religious festive preparations with cultural celebrations, keeping historic traditions alive in modern times.
Anna's Day
lutefisk
Christmas Eve
Swedish name day
Sweden
Finland