Unmissable music events in Sweden

Sweden’s music phenomenon is defined by its remarkably diverse output of internationally recognised artists across genres – think Roxette, Swedish House Mafia, Ghost and Avicii, to name just a few. Behind the scenes, super producers like Max Martin and Shellback have shaped some of the biggest global hits of recent decades, firmly putting Sweden on the map of modern pop culture.

But Swedish music is about more than fame and charts – it’s also a proven boost for wellbeing. Research suggests that listening to music and experiencing live performances can enhance life satisfaction. Of course, every music lover knows that unmistakable rush already – singing along to a favourite artist, voices blending with hundreds or even thousands of others, and a shared joy filling the air.

Here’s our guide to the major music events taking place in Sweden over the coming year.

Recurring music festivals in Sweden

Sweden hosts a wide range of annual music festivals – from metal and pop to jazz and folk. Beloved by audiences year after year, these festivals are truly worth returning to. We’ve listed them by date to give you an easy overview of Sweden’s music calendar.

Melodifestivalen

Ever since ABBA’s victory with “Waterloo” in the Eurovision Song Contest in 1974, Swedes have had a love of this music competition.

The journey to decide who will represent Sweden in that year’s Eurovision begins with Melodifestivalen in February. The competition unfolds through five qualifying rounds across the country (all broadcast live on TV), culminating in the grand finale in Stockholm in March. Expect glitter, feather boas and a lively, inclusive atmosphere at every event.

• Dates and locations for Melodifestivalen 2026 are TBA.

Brännbollsyran, Umeå

May 2026, four days – exact dates TBA

Brännbollsyran offers a truly unique festival experience, combining the daytime World Championship in rounders with northern Sweden’s largest evening music festival.

Sweden Rock, Sölvesborg

3-6 June 2026

Sweden Rock is a legendary festival held just outside Sölvesborg in Blekinge. With more than 90 bands performing across five stages, it serves up an unbeatable mix of classic rock, hard rock, metal, blues and related genres.

Drömmen Festival, Stockholm

June 2026, one day – exact date TBA

A one-day festival filled with dance, joy and nostalgia. The line-up is still to be announced, but the focus at Drömmen Festival is on artists with staying power – past editions have featured names such as Ronan Keating and the Gipsy Kings.

Sthlm Fields, Stockholm

June 2026, three days – exact dates TBA

Enjoy a grand concert series with a vibrant festival atmosphere. Sthlm Fields is one of Stockholm’s largest music festivals, featuring both Swedish stars and international acts.

Broken Summer, Stockholm

June 2026, one day – exact date TBA

Broken Summer is a one-day festival in central Stockholm, bringing together fans of metalcore and deathcore. Launched in 2025, it was such a success that it’s making a strong return in 2026.

Bayside festival, Helsingborg

July 2026, two days – exact dates TBA

This southern city festival draws tens of thousands of visitors every year. Held in central Helsingborg, it usually features a line-up packed with popular Swedish artists.

Dansbandsveckan, Malung

July 2026, one week – exact dates TBA

For an authentic slice of Swedish culture, head to Dalarna for Dansbandsveckan. This one-of-a-kind festival centres around ‘dansband’ music, ideal for partner dances like jitterbug and foxtrot. Rooted in schlager, country, rock’n’roll and swing, the genre provides a lively soundtrack for social dancing. With more than 100,000 visitors expected, Dansbandsveckan is a joyful celebration not to be missed.

Urkult, Näsåker

30 July-1 August 2026

Urkult is a three-day celebration of folk and world music, enriched with workshops, courses, children’s theatre, poetry slams and more. A highlight is the Night of Fire, a spectacular opening ceremony reimagined by different artists each year. Guided by values of peace, love and inclusivity, Urkult brings people together and fosters meaningful cross-cultural connections.

Storsjöyran, Östersund

August 2026, two days – exact dates TBA

Storsjöyran, often simply called Yran, is one of Sweden’s oldest city festivals, dating back to 1963. The event combines a diverse line-up of renowned Swedish and international acts with niche performers, creating a vibrant mix that appeals to a wide audience.

Way out West, Gothenburg

13-15 August 2026

Way Out West is one of Sweden’s most iconic festivals. Since its debut in 2007, this festival in Gothenburg’s Slottsskogen park has attracted world-class artists across genres – from pop and hip-hop to rock and electronic music. The experience goes beyond the music, with film screenings, art exhibitions and a strong focus on sustainability, making it a cultural highlight as well as a musical one.

Malmöfestivalen, Malmö

August 2026, eight days – exact dates TBA

Scandinavia’s largest festival, Malmöfestivalen, is a vibrant celebration of music, culture, art, sports, food and more. All concerts are free to attend, and the city’s streets come alive with performances and activities for all ages.

Stockholm Jazz Festival, Stockholm

10-19 October 2025

One of Sweden’s oldest festivals, Stockholm Jazz Festival, continues to captivate audiences. Last year, it set a record with more than 31,000 attendees. The festival features a mix of globally acclaimed jazz stars and emerging talents across the city, creating a dynamic musical experience that resonates throughout the city.