Great Scandinavian Gifts for Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day isn’t just a U.S. holiday. Across Scandinavia, people celebrate with traditions of their own—and with gifts that reflect local customs.

Valentine’s Day in Scandinavia

In Sweden, the holiday is called Alla Hjärtans Dag (“All Hearts Day”). On Feb. 14, people celebrate by sharing sweet pastries and candies. Though it’s been observed in Sweden only since the 1960s, it’s now widely seen as a romantic day for exchanging treats and celebrating someone special—much like Valentine’s Day in the U.S.

In Denmark and Norway, the holiday is known as Valentinsdag. In Norway, it’s especially popular with younger people, who often give flowers and candy to their romantic partners. Proposals are also common, and there’s a charming belief that Valentinsdag is when birds mate. If two birds are spotted pairing on Valentinsdag, it’s considered a sign of true love.

Denmark has its own unique tradition called gækkebreve—literally, “snowdrop letters.” Instead of signing their name, the sender leaves clues in a romantic note or poem and signs with dots. The recipient’s job is to guess who wrote it. Gækkebreve is also connected to Easter traditions, with a prize—often an “Easter egg”—for the correct guess.

No matter which Scandinavian tradition you celebrate this February, the Scandinavian Shoppe offers a collection of gifts and jewelry that make the day feel extra special.

Scandinavian Jewelry

Jewelry is always a meaningful Valentine’s Day gift. Scandinavian pieces are especially romantic because they’re tied to heritage, folklore, and timeless symbols.

Dala Horse Earrings

In Swedish culture, the Dala horse represents strength and good luck. These earrings are a sweet way to honor the bond between friends—or celebrate the love in a relationship this Valentine’s Day. Choose the look you love most: Rose or Gold.

Dala Horse Silver Bracelet

Prefer a bracelet? This handmade Dala horse bracelet still carries the same meaning of strength and good luck. It’s crafted in Dalarna, Sweden, making it an authentic, thoughtful Scandinavian gift.

Cut-Out Heart Pendant

From En Gry & Sif (Denmark), this heart pendant is a small but powerful reminder of love. It’s the kind of piece your special someone can wear every day.

Scandinavian Gifts (Not Jewelry)

If you want a Valentine’s Day gift that isn’t jewelry, Scandinavian Shoppe also has options that feel thoughtful, practical, and charming.

Pewter Dala Horse

If you like the meaning of the Dala horse but want something smaller, this 1-inch pewter figurine is a great choice. Handmade and polished in a workshop in Tennung, Sweden, it’s a sentimental gift that says you’re thinking of them.

Valentine-Themed Swedish Dishcloths

Add a touch of Valentine’s Day to the kitchen with these heart-shaped dishcloths. Made from cellulose fibers, they’re environmentally friendly and designed to absorb 15 times their weight in water—a sweet, functional gift that fits the season.