Fika is a quintessential aspect of Swedish culture. The word fika can be used as both a noun and a verb and represents more than just a coffee break; it's a social ritual that fosters connections and camaraderie among people. Fika typically refers to having coffee with a snack; those snacks can be either sweet (cardamom bun, cookie, chocolates, etc.) or savory (a small open-faced sandwich). If you’re not a coffee drinker, tea, soda, or any other drink will do. The practice of fika being incorporated into daily schedules, whether at work, school, or home, underscores its significance in Swedish social life. It provides a designated time for people to come together, share stories, and strengthen bonds. In workplaces it is not unusual to have a rotating schedule of who brings in the treats for the fika.
A common time to have fika is at 11 AM, which is referred to as “11-kaffe” in Swedish. A more formal and old-fashioned type of fika is kafferep. Kafferep is typically a more elaborate event, and when done correctly, kaffrep includes exactly 7 types of cookies. Transitioning from kafferep to fika at the Swedish club indicates a modernization of the tradition while still valuing its communal aspects. Fika serves as a cornerstone of Swedish social culture, emphasizing the importance of shared moments and connection in daily life.
We hope you join us at our monthly fika!
