Gamla Stan's Polkagriskokeri

And staying in the Christmas vein... make sure you don't miss visiting Gamla Stans Polkagriskokeri when in Stockholm, especially during the holiday season. The perfect place to buy Swedish candy and treats to take with you home or to enjoy yourself while you are here. But perhaps it would help if I explained what "polkagris" and "kokeri"are?

Polkagris is basically the Swedish version of a candy cane minus the hook shape. However, these days polkagris can come in a wide variety of flavors, shapes and colors besides the classic peppermint stick. And a "polkagriskokeri" is basically where polkagris is made. In other words, it is a candy cane factory! How is it made? It is sugar dough which is boiled (to "koka"), kneaded, pulled and then twisted into the desired shape before it hardens.

So much candy it is spilling out of the drawers.

Polkagris was first made in the town of Gränna back in 1859 and the town has become a tourist attraction with visitors coming from far and wide to watch them make polkagris. So it is important to note that this is the only polkagriskokeri outside of Gränna! Not only can you try and purchase the delicious treats, but you can watch them make it as well.

Post twisting, ready for cutting.

The shop/kokeri is located in Gamla Stan, making it easy to combine with other activities. Like maybe a visit to the Christmas market on Stortoget? At any rate, the shop is just a 15 minute walk from the Rival Hotel. The store is, of course, open year round so you don't have to limit getting your polkagris fix to the month of December!