Preserving the Swedish and Scandinavian heritage which has been so prominent in Andersonville is the mission of the Swedish American Museum at 5211 N. Clark Street. A strong part of that tradition is Julmarknad which, according to museum marketing director Leslie Nordstrom, stands for “Christmas market.”

“As you know,” Leslie says, “Sweden is very far north, and at this time of the year it tends to be very dark. So Christmas with all of its lights and time with family and friends are very important to the Scandinavian people. It’s a time for coziness and a time to be with family and friends.”

Julmarknad will have its preview on December 4 as a part of Late Night Andersonville, but the full program will occur on Saturday December 5 from 10 AM to 5 PM and Sunday December 6 from 10 a.m to 4 p.m. In addition to the sale of products including such things as jewelry and ornaments, all of which are related to Scandinavia, there will be entertainment including the Nordic Dancers. There will even be a visit from Santa Claus! “The event is very well attended,” Leslie says, but newcomers are always welcome. There is a suggested donation of $2 per person whether one is a member of the museum or not.

With the closing of Erickson’s Deli, people have wondered where to purchase their Scandinavian products. At Julmarknad, Wikstrom’s will be available to take orders for one’s favorite Swedish delicacies and products.

For more information visit Swedishamericanmuseum.org

And whether Scandinavian, Swedish or not, visit the lights, traditions and sounds of Julmarknad.