How to Host a Swedish Crayfish Party

A Swedish crayfish party is one of the most beloved traditions of late summer. Crayfish, songs, lanterns and a long evening with friends or family make it a special occasion – and with a little planning, it's easy to create a relaxed celebration that you can enjoy just as much as your guests.

Start with the guest list

A great crayfish party doesn't have to be large. It works just as well as an intimate dinner with close friends as it does for a bigger gathering.

Start by deciding how many people you want to invite and where everyone will sit. Crayfish take up a surprising amount of space on the table, so allow a little more room per person than you would for a regular dinner.

Send your invitations well in advance and ask guests to RSVP. This makes it much easier to plan the food, drinks and seating.

How much crayfish do you need?

The amount of crayfish you need depends on what else you're serving, but around half a kilo per person is a useful starting point. If crayfish are the clear centerpiece of the meal, consider serving a little more.

It's also a good idea to add a few substantial side dishes so the meal doesn't depend entirely on the amount of crayfish.

What to serve with crayfish

A Swedish crayfish party doesn't need an elaborate menu. A few traditional accompaniments go a long way.

• Västerbotten cheese pie or another savory cheese tart

• Bread and butter

• Aged cheese

• A simple salad

• Aioli or another cold sauce

• Something sweet to serve with coffee

If any of your guests don't eat shellfish, make sure to provide a proper alternative rather than leaving them to make a meal out of the side dishes.

Drinks for a crayfish party

Beer and snaps are traditional features of many Swedish crayfish parties, but they are certainly not essential. Make sure there are plenty of alcohol-free alternatives and water available as well.

The most important thing is to choose drinks that suit your guests. A crayfish party can be just as enjoyable with alcohol-free beer, lemonade or other festive non-alcoholic options.

Set the table for a traditional crayfish party

A crayfish party is an occasion where the decorations can be playful. Paper lanterns, colorful napkins and simple decorations can quickly create the right atmosphere.

Practical details are more important than creating a perfect table setting. Put out large bowls for discarded crayfish shells, plenty of napkins and, if possible, small bowls of water with lemon for cleaning sticky fingers.

If you're sitting outdoors, blankets and extra lighting are useful when the late-summer evening becomes darker and cooler.

Don't forget the songs

Drinking songs and communal singing are a traditional part of the Swedish crayfish party for many people. A small song booklet on the table makes it easier for everyone to join in – including guests who don't know the songs by heart.

It doesn't need to be formal. A few familiar songs and guests who are willing to join in are more than enough.

Plan for the weather

Crayfish parties are often held outdoors, but Swedish late-summer evenings aren't always predictable.

If you're planning an outdoor celebration, decide in advance what you'll do if it rains. A canopy, covered patio or the option to quickly move the dinner indoors can save the evening.

Prepare as much as possible before your guests arrive

A crayfish party is at its best when the host can stay at the table too. Prepare as much as possible before your guests arrive.

Set the table, chill the drinks, prepare pies and side dishes and put out everything you'll need during the meal. Keep the crayfish refrigerated until it's time to serve them.

The less you need to organize during the party itself, the more time you can spend with your guests.

A simple crayfish party checklist

• Choose a date and location

• Create your guest list and send the invitations

• Collect RSVPs and dietary preferences

• Order or buy the crayfish

• Plan side dishes and drinks

• Prepare the table, napkins and bowls for crayfish shells

• Prepare song booklets and music

• Have a backup plan if you're celebrating outdoors

Summary

A successful Swedish crayfish party doesn't need to be complicated. Good crayfish, a few traditional side dishes and people you enjoy spending time with go a long way. Plan the guest list, food and practical details in advance, create a relaxed atmosphere and then let the late-summer evening unfold at its own pace.