Colors of Goteborg - traditions, festivals, mentality and lifestyle

When the name of Gothenburg is mentioned, those who prefer heavy music immediately recall guitar riffs of Hammerfall, In Flames, Katana, and, of course, the founders of MDM (melodic death metal) on the Swedish scene - Ceremonial Oath and Dark Tranquillity. The city is often called the “MDM's homeland”. The thing is that many bands were formed here, which locals are very proud of. Despite the fact that many of them are fans of hard music, local people are polite and tactful but not tough people, as it may seem at first glance. They are always ready to help if they see that help is needed, having long got used to crowds of tourists often visiting their hometown.

Local residents are self-sufficient and can stand up for themselves, being known for their straightforwardness. At the same time, they will never say anything that can offend a person. Locals prefer to get to know the person first and understand what might offend him or her. They are quite relaxed, never in a hurry, and prefer to draw up a clear plan to follow without question. They are tolerant, do not want to blame anyone for their appearance or inner qualities. Of course, as long as people observe the laws and behave decently in their country.

Tourists should have no problems with the language because basically everyone here speaks English. However, it would be appreciated if someone knows at least a few words in Swedish. The main products are fish and seafood. Gothenburg's must-try dishes include fresh oysters, boiled mussels, boiled shrimps, lobsters, and langoustines, as well as salted salmon. By the way, one or another sauce is needed for each dish, and this is strictly observed. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Well, since Gothenburg is the birthplace of MDM, it is not surprising that several interesting metal festivals take place here. First of all, it is worth noting the Metaltown Festival, which falls on the period from late June and early July. Here you can listen to all sorts of music - heavy metal, hardcore, punk. Headliner names are known even to those who are not really familiar with this kind of music, and therefore, visiting the festival is one of the goals to be achieved by all metalheads. The venue for this event is Göteborg Galopp Arena.

Another interesting festival for metalheads' ears is the Gothenburg Sound Festival. It marks the start of the festival season, which falls on the beginning of January. The event continues the traditions of MDM and pays tribute to such giants as Dark Tranquility and Ceremonial Oath who have perpetuated the name of Gothenburg and made a great contribution to the development of metal music. That's why among the festival's headliners you can often see legendary bands, which makes it another must-have for metal fans.

Just after the Gothenburg Sound, that is, in mid-January, the Abyss Underground Festival starts. The venue is the ground on Polstjärnegatan 14. Here, there is a surprise for every visitor, as organizers make every effort to surprise the audience, and not least with famous DJs performing with metal bands. Another interesting musical event awaiting visitors in mid-August can be visited absolutely free of charge. Here everyone can find a genre to their own taste. The festival takes place at various locations throughout the city. In total, the event is attended by about 700 thousand spectators.

In the same month, and more precisely at its beginning, Slottsskogen City Park becomes the main venue for a grand rock festival with the name of Way Out West. The fest may choose other locations as well, so just follow its news. The festival has already won hundreds of fans around the world and is considered very popular among young people. In early summer, you can witness such an event as the Summerburst. It takes place at Ullevi Arena, being one of the most popular events in the festival life of the city. Its headliners include famous and popular performers who come from all over the world and play in different genres, from indie to reggae.

In late February, Gothenburg hosts such an event as the Gothenburg Horse Show and Eurohorse. The venue for the event is the Scandinavium Arena. This is the time of colorful performances and shows, which means that all those looking for vivid impressions and interesting events must witness the event. Well, for those who wish to taste the best alcoholic drinks at the beginning of April should pay special attention to A Beer & Whiskey Fair, which is held at Swedish Exhibition & Congress Center. Here you can try not only drinks produced by large companies but also local craft beer. And, of course, choose the best drink - whiskey or beer.

Such a grand event as Kulturnatta is scheduled for October. The festival's program is so extensive that everyone can find something to their liking. Music, art, and theatrical performances - all these can be heard not only in Swedish but also in international English. Another cultural event with a rich program, Gothenburg Culture Festival, takes place in the middle of August. Here you can listen to music and literary readings, enjoy the opera, watch stage performances, as well as visit a fair where to buy hand-made products. All these can be found at various locations throughout the city, so be sure to keep an eye on posters.

Visiting Gothenburg in late April, you can witness such an event as The International Science Festival (Vetenskapsfestivalen) taking place in various locations. Seminars, exhibitions, workshops are held within its framework, and every new year is devoted to a particular topic requiring discussion. Without exaggeration, it is the biggest event of its kind in all of Europe, which is participated by the best scientists from all over the world.