If you’re visiting Stockholm around the holiday season and looking for a cozy, culturally rich experience, the Millesgården Advent Calendar Exhibition might just be your thing. Based on what we’ve seen from reviews and the tour description, this experience offers a charming glimpse into Swedish Christmas traditions through the eyes of a beloved artist. For $18, you get access to some original watercolors, a museum, and a festive atmosphere that’s suitable for a broad audience.

What we particularly like about this experience is how it combines art with tradition—especially if you’re into storybook illustrations and the history of holiday symbols. The watercolors by Aina Stenberg-Masolle are a real highlight, capturing the enchantment of Christmas in vivid detail. Plus, the decorated artist’s home adds a cozy, inviting backdrop that makes the exhibition feel warm and personable. On the flip side, a possible downside is that the access to the exhibition space involves stairs, which could be tricky for visitors with mobility issues. Still, if you’re physically able, this tour seems like a delightful way to celebrate the season.

This experience is best suited for those who enjoy art, cultural traditions, and festive settings. Whether you’re traveling alone, with a partner, or in a group, the appeal lies in experiencing a piece of Swedish Christmas heritage in a beautiful environment.

Key Points

Affordable entry at just $18, offering good value for access to original art and a historic setting.
A unique focus on the very first Swedish Advent calendar, created in 1934, and its ongoing tradition.
Accessible for all ages who appreciate holiday-themed art and decoration (though not wheelchair accessible).
Includes more than just the watercolors—you also get access to Millesgården’s art gallery, sculpture park, and artist’s home.
Timing is flexible with options to check availability for different starting times within the valid date range.
A festive, family-friendly environment that celebrates Christmas through visual storytelling.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Millesgården Advent Calendar Exhibition

When we first started looking into this tour, what caught our attention was the combination of art, tradition, and a beautifully decorated setting. The ticket price of $18 makes it accessible, especially considering the depth of the experience—access to original watercolors, a scenic artist’s home, and Millesgården’s broader offerings.

Museum lover? We've covered these other cultural institutions in Stockholm

What to Expect When You Arrive

The experience begins at the reception desk, where you check in. The exhibition itself is housed at Millesgården, a well-known museum in Stockholm County. Once inside, you’ll find yourself in a festively decorated artist’s home, which sets a warm, nostalgic tone. The primary draw is the collection of original watercolors from The Childrens Advent Calendar by Aina Stenberg-Masolle, a beloved Swedish storybook illustrator. Her work includes designs for fairy tale books as well as Christmas, Easter, and New Year’s cards.

We loved the way the watercolors bring the Christmas motifs to life—charming scenes filled with playful animals, cozy cottages, and whimsical characters. These illustrations not only evoke childhood wonder but also provide insight into the creative process behind one of Sweden’s most cherished holiday traditions.

The Art and Its Significance

Aina Stenberg-Masolle created the first Advent calendar in Sweden back in 1934, and she continued this tradition annually until 1964. That’s nearly 30 years of holiday art! Her designs are more than just pretty pictures—they reflect cultural values, storytelling, and the festive spirit that has become part of Swedish Christmas. Seeing her watercolors in person feels like being invited into a fairy tale, especially with the setting decorated for the season.

The exhibition is designed to be accessible to both children and adults. Many reviews mention how engaging it is for families, with kids captivated by the colorful illustrations, while adults appreciate the historical context and artistic detail. But it’s not just for families—those who love art and tradition will find plenty to enjoy here.

Additional Highlights

Beyond the watercolors, the ticket grants entry to the entire Millesgården complex—the Art Gallery, Sculpture Park, and the Artist’s Home. If you’re in Stockholm for a day, this added access makes the ticket even more valuable. The Sculpture Park, in particular, is a peaceful outdoor space with striking works of art—ideal for some relaxing wandering after the exhibition.

More Great Tours Nearby

Practical Details and Considerations

The exhibition runs from November 19, 2025, to January 11, 2026, making it a perfect seasonal activity. Since the ticket is valid for one day, it’s best to plan your visit around other activities at Millesgården. The tour doesn’t include a guided component, so if you’re interested in a deeper understanding of the artist or the history, you might want to do some background reading beforehand.

A note worth mentioning is that access involves stairs, which could be an issue for visitors with limited mobility. Unfortunately, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, so if mobility is a concern, plan accordingly or consider alternative experiences.

While in Stockholm, here are other experiences we've covered

The Value for Your Money

At just $18, this experience offers a delightful blend of art, tradition, and seasonal cheer. Compared to other cultural activities in Stockholm, it’s quite affordable and provides a lot of visual and historical richness. If you’re a fan of holiday art or looking for a cozy, family-friendly activity, this is a solid choice.

Authentic Voices and Feedback

From reviews, visitors describe the exhibit as “enchanting” and “a joy for both children and adults,” confirming its broad appeal. One noted that seeing the original watercolors gave an extra layer of appreciation, as “you can really see the detail and love that went into each piece.” Others mention how the festive decorations at the artist’s home create a joyful atmosphere, making the experience feel special and authentic.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re after cultural insights into Swedish Christmas, love art and illustration, or want a cozy activity that immerses you in holiday traditions, this tour is a good fit. It’s especially suited for those traveling without mobility issues, as access involves stairs. Families with children may find it particularly engaging, but it’s also a lovely experience for couples or solo travelers who appreciate seasonal art.

FAQs

Is this experience suitable for children?
Yes, it’s designed to be engaging for both children and adults, especially with the colorful watercolors and festive setup.

Does the ticket include guided commentary?
No, it doesn’t include a guided tour. You’ll explore the exhibition at your own pace.

Can I visit the exhibition on any day within the timeframe?
Yes, but you’ll need to check availability for your preferred date and time, as the ticket is valid for one day only.

Is the exhibition accessible for people with mobility issues?
Unfortunately, no. Access involves stairs, so it’s not suitable for wheelchair users.

What else can I see at Millesgården?
Your ticket includes entry to the Art Gallery, Sculpture Park, and the Artist’s Home, providing a well-rounded cultural experience.

How long does the tour last?
The exhibition itself is designed for a one-day visit; the duration depends on how long you explore the watercolors and grounds.

What is the overall rating of the experience?
The provider’s rating is high at 4.7, reflecting positive reviews from previous visitors.

Ready to Book?

Lidingö: Millesgården Advent Calendar Exhibition Ticket

Final Thoughts

This Millesgården Advent Calendar Exhibition offers a charming, accessible way to celebrate Christmas through art and tradition. It’s a relatively inexpensive ticket that unlocks a window into Swedish holiday culture, perfect for art lovers, families, or anyone seeking a peaceful seasonal activity. While it’s not suited for visitors with mobility challenges, the overall experience promises to be warm, nostalgic, and visually captivating.

If you’re in Stockholm during the holiday season and want a peaceful, cultural break from the hustle and bustle, this exhibit is a quiet gem. It won’t overwhelm but will definitely leave you with a sense of festive wonder—an ideal way to mark the season with a touch of Swedish artistic charm.