Swedish Youth

Sjölunden is the name of the Swedish Language Village.

When you arrive at Sjölunden, you’ll go through “customs,” select a Swedish name to use during your stay, and embark on a new adventure where Swedish language and culture are celebrated. Friendly staff members will make sure you feel welcome as you exchange American dollars for kronor and meet your new cabin mates and friends.

Life in the North Woods is relaxed. Bring shorts, t-shirts, jeans, swimwear, and a rain jacket. Pack your toothbrush and sunscreen, too! We’ll send you a complete suggested packing list after registration.

You’ll be busy all day long at the Swedish Language Village.  Why not join our seglarskola (sailing school) or try your hand at vävning (weaving) or learning the guitar?  Celebrate Swedish traditions such as midsommar (midsummer) and Sankta Lucia (St. Lucia day).  We have lots of activities to choose from, including canoeing, sauna, painting, dancing, brännboll (Swedish baseball), soccer, kubb (Viking lawn-bowling) and kräftskiva (crayfish parties). Activity periods are scattered throughout the day so you can immerse yourself in Swedish activities, games, sports, and music.

Fast Facts
Village: Sjölunden
Founded 1975
Capacity: 85 villagers
Borders: Turtle River Lake
Language: Swedish
Currency: Kronor
Time Zone: CDT (Daylight Savings)

Location

Just as Sweden and Finland are northern European neighbors, Sjölunden villagers enjoy the benefits of the neighboring Finnish Language Village, located right next door on the shores of Turtle River Lake near Bemidji, Minnesota.

Currently, Sjölunden villagers use cabins, dining spaces, and activity spaces in the Finnish Language Village for summer programs.  Since 2006, however, we have been adding new, dedicated, culturally authentic Swedish facilities. This $2.7 million construction project is scheduled for completion by 2010 and will give Sjölunden its own dedicated site. 

Until the new site is completed, when you come to Sjölunden, you’ll be living in a comfortable cabin with staff members and between 11 and 15 other villagers who are all your same gender and about your age. You’ll have your own bunk for your sleeping bag and pillow, as well as a place to store your clothes and other belongings (pack wisely as there is limited storage space).

Visit our Village Page to see videos and pictures of last year’s villagers and camp activities.