Swedish Cookies & Coffee – Fika at London’s Soho Square (Admission Free)

Swedish cookies and coffee

On 24th, 25th & 26th of August Visit Sweden is transforming London’s Soho Square into ‘Fika Square’.

Each of those days between 12.30pm and 2.30pm  a team from the Southern Swedish holiday destination of Skåne, led by world famous pastry chef Jan Hedh and accompanied by traditionally dressed Swedish old ladies, will be serving traditional Fika, the Swedish equivalent of high tea and sharing stories about the region.

Swedish chef Jan Hedh

Additionally, there will be a live art instillation by renowned Swedish artist from Skåne – Emma Karp Lundström who works using apples to create scenes from the area she grew up in.

Swedish artist from Skåne Emma Karp Lundström

What is Fika?

The term Fika dates back to the early 19th century and derives from the Swedish word fik meaning coffee. In the early 1800 coffee was forbidden in Sweden, once the ban was lifted in 1822 and it became legal to drink coffee once more, the emphasis on enjoying a coffee break became heightened and cookies were introduced as part of this custom. Traditionally, 7 cookies are served as part of the Fika ritual. In the 19th century the ingredients for cookies were expensive and it was a sign of wealth be able to offer your guest several varieties of cookies.

Fika Square: Fika Parlor and Fika Picnic

LOCATION: Soho Square, London W1D, UK
DATE: 24, 25, 26 August 2011
TIME: 12.30 pm – 2.30 pm
ORGANIZER: Visit Sweden
ADMISSION: Free
BOOKING: reservations@fikasquare.co.uk

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