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We have already discussed Christmas markets, Christmas tables, and the televised Advent calendar on this blog, but in Sweden, there are many other traditions that persist during the Christmas season, almost as if the Swedes can never have enough... The julvärd is one of these somewhat strange traditions, almost from another era. In a world that is increasingly digitalized and fast-paced, the julvärd can really seem out of place, but that’s precisely what gives it its charm and magic. The julvärd's role is to preserve a certain simplicity and warmth that bring comfort and reassurance to many viewers.
What is a julvärd?
The concept of julvärd (Christmas host or hostess) refers to a person who symbolically welcomes television viewers and creates a warm and friendly atmosphere during Christmas Eve. This person often presents and hosts the Christmas program on TV, becoming a kind of pleasant gathering for families and those spending the holidays alone. The julvärd can be a TV presenter, an actor or actress, a comedian, a journalist—essentially a beloved and friendly personality that is well-liked by the Swedish public.
Foto: Christine Olsson/TT
The Julvärd traditionally appears in a Christmas-decorated setting, often with festive elements like candles, Christmas trees, or decorations, to immerse viewers in the holiday spirit. When did this tradition start? The origin of this tradition dates back to 1959, when Swedish national television introduced special Christmas programs shortly after the launch of the second national channel. The concept was to offer viewers a cozy, family-oriented moment to celebrate Christmas, with a person — the julvärd — appearing on screen to introduce programs, sing Christmas carols, read stories, and share Christmas wishes.
Who was the very first julvärd, a man or a woman? Sources don't agree on this point, but what is certain is that by the 1960s, the tradition had been established on the national channel, and every year, viewers eagerly awaited this special host.
One of the common rituals for all julvärds was lighting a candle at the start of the program, which is why in 2021, the start time was moved to 3 p.m. to allow everyone to see the julvärd light the candle. Many viewers missed this precious moment when the program used to start at 2:55 p.m.
Another key and iconic moment of the program is the airing of the animated show "Kalle Anka och hans vänner" ("Donald Duck and his Friends"), which has been broadcast on Christmas Day since 1959, around 3 p.m., and at 3:05 p.m. since 2021. This marks the beginning of the Christmas Eve celebrations and festivities in many Swedish households. The julvärd introduces and comments the program, which becomes an unmissable family event, with many Swedes gathering to watch it together. The julvärd is present throughout the entire Christmas Eve broadcast on television.
The role of the Julvärd
The julvärd plays a key role in creating the Christmas atmosphere. Apart from television programs, they can also appear in commercials, events, or other Christmas-related broadcasts. They are meant to embody the values of warmth, hospitality, and the spirit of Christmas.
Foto: Janne Danielsson/SVT
The Julvärd is often a well-known personality in Swedish television, radio, or media, but also someone with a friendly personality capable of conveying the spirit of Christmas. The role is a mix of the traditional host who welcomes you into their home and the presenter who guides viewers through the magical world of the holidays.
The julvärd is a prestigious role in Sweden, symbolizing the spirit of Christmas and carrying strong cultural significance. The selection is usually based on the person's popularity and their ability to represent Swedish traditions in a warm and engaging manner.
Arne Weise, a very loyal host...
Although since the 1990s the tradition has been to have a different julvärd each year, this was not necessarily the case at the beginning of the Christmas Eve broadcast. Arne Weise is undoubtedly the most loyal julvärd in the history of Swedish television. He hosted the evening in 1964, then again in 1966, and in 1980, finally between 1991 and 2002, sometimes alone and sometimes accompanied by others. Arne Weise was appreciated for his ability to create an intimate and convivial atmosphere. When he appeared on screen, his deep and measured voice, along with his kind smile, brought a sense of comfort and serenity. His tone was calm and reassuring, and he knew exactly how to capture the audience's attention, whether they were children or adults.
Arne Weise also embodied the traditional Swedish values of Christmas. His way of wishing a "God Jul" (Merry Christmas) became almost a ritual for many Swedes, he was seen as a member of the family. He represented the spirit of Christmas with his simplicity, respect for traditions, and his ability to connect viewers to the collective Christmas experience in Sweden. Arne Weise was not there to draw attention to himself, but to serve as a bridge between the show and the viewers. He gave a human face and a reassuring voice to the televised event, making the Christmas experience feel more authentic and warm. His role was not that of a media star, but of a messenger for the traditions and values of Christmas. His neat appearance and his way of dressing elegantly yet discreetly reinforced his image as a gentle authority figure, a reliable guide for celebrating Christmas. He wasn't spectacular in his gestures, but his presence on screen was filled with dignity and respect.
One of the most striking aspects of his role as julvärd was his ability to unite the generations. Many Swedes who watched him on television as the Christmas host are now parents themselves and continue to watch the program with their own children.For thousands of Swedes, his presence on screen during Christmas was a moment of comfort, a symbol of family unity and the continuity of traditions.
A few examples of julvärd
After the long reign of Arne Weise, here are a few examples of the personalities who have taken on the role of julvärd in the 2000s.
2004: Ernst Kirchsteiger / Photo: Fredrik Nilsson/TV4
Ernst Kirchsteiger is a Swedish interior designer, television host, and author, known for his shows and his warm approach to design. He is famous for his skills in interior decoration and his ability to make living spaces both functional and aesthetic while emphasizing comfort and harmony.
As a person, he is also widely known for his life philosophy, which advocates the importance of simplicity, authenticity, and attention to detail when creating a home environment. His humble image, close connection to people, and warm approach to life made him particularly suited for this symbolic role. Additionally, his experience in the media and his work in interior design, where he promotes a welcoming atmosphere, strengthened his nomination as a natural choice for this role.
2007: Anne Lundberg / Photo: Fredrik Sandberg / SCANPIX
Anne Lundberg is a beloved Swedish television presenter, best known for her work in reality shows, travel programs, and entertainment, including Antikrundan (the Swedish antiques show) and Vem vet mest? (a quiz show). She is also very popular for her cordial, authentic approach and her ability to create a relaxed and friendly atmosphere on screen.
Anne Lundberg was chosen to be julvärd (Christmas host) due to several qualities that align perfectly with the image Swedish television aims to project during the holidays: her authenticity and charisma, her extensive media experience, and her ability to create a cosy and genuine atmosphere.
2009: Lisbeth Åkerman / Photo: Bertil Ericson
Lisbeth Åkerman is a Swedish journalist and television presenter, well-known for her work in the media, particularly in television and radio. She is a respected figure in the Swedish media landscape for her professionalism and her accessible, polite manner of addressing the public. Her experience as a journalist and presenter allowed her to develop great ease and a natural ability to connect with viewers.
The role of julvärd requires maintaining a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, and her professionalism allowed her to fulfill this task with being at ease.
2011: Kalle Moraeus / Photo: Anders Deros
Kalle Moraeus is a popular Swedish musician, composer, and television host, especially known for his skills as a violinist, his involvement in Swedish folk music, and his role in entertainment shows. He is a member of Orsa Spelmän, a Swedish traditional music group, and has a recognized solo career. Kalle Moraeus embodies traditional Swedish values through his music, particularly folk music and Christmas songs. Christmas in Sweden is deeply connected to musical traditions, and with his extensive experience in this field, Kalle Moraeus was a natural choice to represent the Christmas spirit.
His ability to perform traditional music that touches the heart of Swedish culture aligns perfectly with the festive spirit of Christmas.
2014: Henrik Dorsin / Photo: Janne Danielsson/SVT
Henrik Dorsin is a much-loved Swedish actor, comedian, and television host, known for his humor, singing talent, and artistic versatility. He is a well-established figure in Swedish television and theater, having participated in many entertainment shows, theater performances, and musicals. Dorsin is particularly appreciated for his performances in variety shows and his ability to embody comedic roles while still connecting with the audience through sincerity and charisma.
Henrik Dorsin has extensive experience in television, particularly in popular programs such as Måndagsklubben, Grotesco, and Så ska det låta. He has also hosted live events, which helped him develop great ease on screen. His ability to fluidly ensure different tones, from comedic to emotional, is essential for a julvärd, who must occasionally alternate between lightheartedness and deeper moments during the Christmas season.
2019: Marianne Mörck / Photo: Lejla Bibezic
Marianne Mörck is a well-known Swedish actress and television presenter, especially appreciated for her work in theater, television, and musicals. She is particularly loved for her versatility, acting talent, and warm charisma. Mörck has had a rich career, participating in many theater and television productions in Sweden, while being a respected and sympathetic figure. Marianne Mörck is a beloved figure in Swedish public life.
Her background in theater, her roles in popular shows, and her human approach have helped her build a strong relationship with viewers. For the role of julvärd, it is important that the host is someone the audience knows and loves, someone who can create a personal and warm connection with the public. Mörck, with her open personality and ease on screen, perfectly fits this requirement.
2020: Lars Lerin / Photo: SVT
Lars Lerin is a highly respected Swedish painter and artist, known for his watercolors that often depict Nordic landscapes, natural scenes, and motifs infused with poetry and serenity. His work has a deep and introspective quality, and he is particularly admired for the sensitivity and beauty of his art. Lerin also gained popularity through television shows where he shared his creative process and artistic approach. Lars Lerin is an artist whose work is strongly influenced by the Swedish nature.
His watercolors often depict snowy landscapes, forests, lakes, and typically Nordic views, elements that resonate deeply with the spirit of Christmas in Sweden. Christmas in Sweden is a celebration of family traditions and the beauty of the winter landscape, and Lerin perfectly embodies this calm and serene atmosphere. His art reflects an intimate connection with the Swedish landscape, a key element of the Christmas ambiance in the country.
Finally, 2020 was the year of COVID-19, undoubtedly the least traditional Christmas in Sweden (many festivities were canceled), made it particularly important to connect with nature that year.
2021: Tareq Taylor / Photo: Jerker Ivarsson
Tareq Taylor is a Swedish chef and television presenter, well known for his culinary talents and his charisma on screen. Born in Sweden to Egyptian parents, Tareq gained widespread popularity in Sweden through his cooking shows and appearances in programs focused on food and lifestyle. He has hosted famous cooking shows where he has not only demonstrated his culinary skills but also his humor, friendliness, and passionate approach to food. Food is a central aspect of Christmas celebrations, and Tareq Taylor is a recognized culinary expert.
Christmas in Sweden is a time when food plays a significant role, with traditional dishes like julbord (Christmas buffet), köttbullar (meatballs), lutfisk (dried fish), and many other festive foods. Tareq, with his passion for cooking, brings a special touch to the Christmas program by sharing recipes, tips, and culinary anecdotes. His expertise in preparing holiday meals makes him an ideal host to guide viewers through the culinary traditions of Christmas.
2023: David Batra / Photo: Jerker Ivarsson
David Batra is a Swedish comedian, humorist, and television host known for his accessible style of humor and his ability to tackle various subjects with lightness and wit. He made a name for himself in Sweden through his performances on television, particularly in variety programs and talk shows. Batra is also a recognized member of the Swedish comedy group Batra & Glans, which has often been praised for its humorous approach and subtle play with social and cultural codes. In addition to his career as a comedian, he has also participated in comedy shows and stand-up performances.
David Batra is known for his "down-to-earth" comedic style, he is perceived as someone very human and approachable, which is essential for a julvärd. Christmas is a time when conviviality, warmth, and family bonds are at the heart of concerns. The julvärd must authentically embody these values. With his relaxed style and friendly tone, Batra is able to create an atmosphere in which viewers feel connected and at ease.
2024: Mark Levengood / Photo: Anders Wiklund/TT
Mark Levengood is a Finnish-Swedish television host, journalist, and writer, widely known in Sweden for his humor, warm personality, and social engagement. Born in Finland to Swedish parents, he became a highly appreciated public figure in Sweden, thanks to his presenting talents, columns, and writings, as well as his ability to approach serious topics with lightness and sensitivity.
Mark Levengood is also highly respected for his positions on social issues, particularly LGBTQ+ rights, equality, and tolerance. Christmas is a time of gathering and reflection, and Levengood is someone who, through his communication style, gives depth and humanity to these topics.
As julvärd, he is able to strike the perfect balance between festive cheer and the more emotional moments of the Christmas season, making the program joyful and meaningful.
The julvärd tradition in Sweden is a valuable and cherished part of Swedish culture, deeply embedded over the decades, and even with the evolution of technologies and broadcast platforms, it remains a symbol of the Christmas spirit.
