A Swedish crayfish party (kräftskiva) is one of the most beloved late-summer traditions – a celebration filled with crayfish, songs, snaps, and the glow of August evenings. But to pull it off in true Scandinavian style, a little planning goes a long way. Here’s your complete crayfish party checklist, plus some fun facts to impress your guests.
1. Crayfish – the star of the table
Let’s start with the essentials
Plan for around 500 grams of crayfish per person
Serve them cold with plenty of fresh dill crowns
Add variety with prawns or langoustines if you like
Tip: For the best flavor, cook your own crayfish the day before – or buy pre-cooked ones from a trusted fishmonger or smokehouse.
2. Side dishes and traditional flavors
Västerbotten cheese pie
Crispbread and baguette
Butter, cheese, and aioli
Pickled red onions or a fresh salad
Optional warm dish (like toast with chanterelles or a savory tart)
Fun fact: The recipe for Västerbotten cheese is a well-kept secret, passed down between just a few trusted people since 1872.
3. Drinks – something for everyone
Beer and aquavit (snaps) – flavored with dill, caraway, or elderflower
White wine – crisp and chilled
Non-alcoholic options like sparkling water, lingonberry juice, or homemade lemonade
Snaps songs are a must:
Print a little songbook or create a shared playlist with classics like “Helan går” or “Sjung om studentens lyckliga dag”.
4. Decorations and ambiance
Paper lanterns, string lights, and candles
Napkins and bibs with crayfish prints
Paper crowns for all guests
Color theme in red, white, and yellow
Serving platters, bowls, and seafood trays
Did you know...
Crayfish parties became popular in the early 1900s when Swedish law restricted crayfish fishing to a short season – which led to this festive celebration of the catch.
5. Tools and practical details
Seafood crackers and forks
Plenty of napkins (it will get messy)
Bowls for shells
Wet wipes for sticky fingers
Mosquito repellent for outdoor settings
Rain backup (tent or indoor option)
6. Music, games, and memories
Play classic Swedish summer pop in the background
Organize a crayfish-themed quiz
Keep a camera ready – crayfish parties are full of fun photo ops
Print little cards with fun crayfish and snaps trivia
Fun fact:
Crayfish can live up to 20 years in the wild – but rarely survive more than a few minutes on a Swedish feast table.
7. Dessert to finish the night
After all the salt and snaps, something sweet is perfect
Chocolate cake with whipped cream
Lemon meringue pie
Fresh berries with vanilla sauce
Cloudberry jam with vanilla ice cream
Recap – your crayfish party checklist
• Crayfish (approx. 500 g per person)
• Traditional sides and warm dishes
• Drinks and snaps songs
• Festive decorations
• Serving tools and extras
• Music, games, and dessert
Ready to host your crayfish party?
Follow the checklist, gather your friends, and enjoy this festive Swedish tradition under the late summer sky. And don’t forget to save those wine corks – in a Corkframe.
