A NORDIC TRADITION BY THE SEA

Crayfish Parties at Mataskär

Crayfish, candlelight, sea air, and laughter that carries long into the Nordic night.

A Nordic Tradition by the Sea

As summer slowly turns toward autumn, Mataskär comes alive with one of the Nordic region’s most beloved traditions: the crayfish party.

Gather friends, colleagues, or clients around a long table, enjoy the late summer evenings, and experience a celebration that combines exceptional food, laughter, songs, and the unique atmosphere of the Finnish archipelago.

Availability is limited during the crayfish season, and advance reservations are recommended.

The Tradition

The crayfish party, known in Sweden as kräftskiva, is a cherished late-summer celebration that has become part of Finnish coastal culture.

Traditionally, guests gather around long communal tables decorated with lanterns, candles, colourful table settings, and festive accessories. The atmosphere is relaxed, joyful, and often accompanied by songs, toasts, and plenty of laughter.

The Crayfish Season

The crayfish season begins in 21. July and continues through October. Whether you prefer a traditional Nordic crayfish party complete with songs and decorations, or a more contemporary interpretation, we can tailor the experience to suit your group.

The Table Setting

A traditional crayfish table combines Nordic simplicity with festive details.

Tables are decorated with flowers, candles, lanterns, and seasonal elements, creating a warm atmosphere as daylight slowly fades into the evening.

The setting encourages long conversations, shared meals, and memorable moments together.

Inquire About a Crayfish Party

Whether you are planning a corporate event, client gathering, family celebration, or simply a memorable evening with friends, we would be delighted to help create a uniquely Mataskär experience.

The Mataskär Crayfish Menu

There is no single way to host a crayfish party. Crayfish can be served as a starter, as the main attraction of the evening, or as part of a larger seasonal menu.

Our crayfish are sourced directly from our trusted local supplier and prepared according to Nordic tradition: cooked in salted water and seasoned generously with fresh crown dill.

Guests are also welcome to use their preferred catering partner.

Starter

A typical starter may include:

  • Seasonal soup

  • Skagen with archipelago bread

  • Seafood salad

  • Fresh seasonal ingredients

When served as a starter, approximately six crayfish per guest is customary.

Main Course

When crayfish take centre stage, we typically reserve 10 or more crayfish per guest.

The traditional experience involves peeling the crayfish by hand and enjoying them with toasted bread, fresh dill, salads, potatoes, and seasonal accompaniments.

For guests seeking a more substantial dinner, we often serve a slow-cooked main course alongside the crayfish.

One favourite is our exceptionally tender, low-temperature cooked brisket, renowned for its rich flavour and melt-in-the-mouth texture.

Dessert

To finish the evening, we typically serve a seasonal dessert such as:

  • Berry pie made from local harvests

  • Vanilla sauce

  • Ice cream

  • Strawberry cake

  • Coffee & tea

  • Digestifs can be served alongside dessert.

Dietary Options

We happily accommodate children, vegetarians, and guests with dietary restrictions or shellfish allergies.

For younger guests, peeled shrimp can provide an easier and equally enjoyable alternative.

Vegetarian options may include seasonal vegetables, broad beans, artichokes, tapas selections, and other carefully prepared dishes designed to complement the communal dining experience.