Fika is a concept and activity that is deeply ingrained in Swedish culture. However what is it and what is the history behind it? I briefly explore the history of Swedish fika and all it entails.
Want to learn more about Sweden’s culture? Read about some of the cultural differences between the U.S and Sweden here
The Love of Coffee
The Swedish word for coffee is kaffe or kaffi. In the 19th century, coffee grew in popularity and the word fika (fee-ka) was slang, that came out of the reversed syllables of kaffi. (kaffi -> kaf-ffi -> fika)
Today, fika is used both as a noun and verb here in Sweden, it can be said as “taking a fika”, “let’s go fika” or “fiking”.
The term fika essentially came out of the Swede’s love for coffee. And I mean, Swedes LOVE their coffee, my husband’s coworker recently said she was going to limit their coffee intake, which meant cutting back to 8 cups a day. It is very Swedish to drink at least 3 cups a day, but I know many who have 8 to 10.
The History of Swedish Fika Timeline
16-17th century: Coffee was introduced into Sweden. However, it was mainly for elites and the higher class who could afford it.
18th century: Coffee began to spread. However, King Gustav III was highly opposed to it. He thought it was highly addictive and had negative health benefits so he made efforts to ban it, heavily tax it, and confiscate it. The rulers banned it 5 separate times, but ultimately when the ban was lifted in 1823 it became the most popular drink.
19th century: Coffee grew in popularity as it became affordable to any social class. During this time, bakeries also were introduced so it was common to have coffee alongside something sweet. This is when the word and concept of fika came about. It began in Swedes’ homes as a gesture of hospitality and then later grew into workplaces and social settings.
Today: Swedes are the second largest coffee consumers per capita in the world, just behind Finland in first place. Swedes consume 16.8 pounds (7.6 kg) of coffee per year, which is over double the U.S.
Fika is More than just Coffee Now
Even though fika originated from the love of coffee, the activity can include any non-alcoholic beverage, such as hot tea, matcha lattes, chai lattes, or sparkling water. Cinnamon buns, also known as kanelbullar, are a popular accompaniment.
Fika to Swedes is much more than your typical coffee break or afternoon tea time. It’s mostly about the well-being aspect of the tradition. Fika is a time when you are supposed to take a break from your daily routines and work. Whether social or alone – being in a relaxed environment is one of the most important parts of your fika time to remember what life is truly about.
So wherever you are in the world, go and enjoy some Fika time.
