On December 12, the Swedish-Portuguese Chamber of Commerce hosted its annual traditional Swedish Christmas Lunch at the charming Casa da Cultura de Cascais, a venue that perfectly complemented the festive spirit of the occasion. The event brought together members and friends of CLS for an afternoon filled with delicious food, laughter, and meaningful connections, celebrating the season in true Swedish style.
The beautifully arranged buffet offered an array of Swedish delicacies was a highlight this year, featuring pickled herring, savory meatballs, creamy Janssons frestelse, and festive snaps with the hearty songs. The flavors transported attendees to the heart of Sweden, providing a taste of the country’s rich holiday traditions.
The Christmas Lunch was much more than just the food; it was a celebration of the connections between Sweden and Portugal. The welcoming atmosphere encouraged attendees to discuss, share stories, and strengthen their professional and personal relationships. Many participants remarked on the joy of reconnecting with familiar faces while also making new acquaintances.
Adding to the festive ambiance, the children from the Swedish School delivered a heartwarming Lucia performance, complete with traditional songs and white gowns adorned with glowing candles. Their performance was a highlight of the event, spreading light and joy in the true spirit of St. Lucia’s Day, a beloved Swedish tradition.
Some partners share their thoughts on the event and the Swedish Christmas experience:
"Muito obrigado for inviting SKF to the Christmas lunch organised by CLS. It was a fantastic event and a great way to celebrate Christmas around business partners and friends. For me it was also an opportunity to taste my preferred Swedish dish... the sill (pickled herring) was lovely."
- Diogo do Vale, Regional Sales Head Portugal & Spain, SKF
"My favourite dishes were the gravlax and the pickled herring, which truly captured the festive spirit with their vibrant flavours and cultural significance. What I cherished most about the Christmas Lunch was the opportunity to connect with such a diverse and welcoming group of people, all while celebrating the warmth and tradition of Swedish holiday festivities."
- Marlene Pequenão, Corporate Communications Manager, Securitas
CLS extends its heartfelt thanks to everyone who participated in making this event truly memorable. Special thanks also go to our partners for their continuous support, ensuring that events like these continue to foster connections and celebrate the unique bond between our two nations.
As we close another successful year, CLS is excited to continue bringing together the Swedish and Portuguese communities through engaging events in 2025. We hope to see you at our upcoming activities, where we will keep building bridges, fostering collaboration, and celebrating our shared values.
Thank you for joining us at the CLS Christmas Lunch 2024. Wishing you a joyful holiday season and a prosperous New Year!
