Semlor (Lenten buns) were originally consumed on fettisdagen, or Fat Tuesday, as a celebration before the Christian fasting period of Lent. In modern Sweden, since strict adherence to Lent has waned, semlor make their appearance in bakeries from January through Easter. However, Semla Day (semmeldagen) is still celebrated on Fat Tuesday every year.

King Adolf Frederick died in 1771 after eating 14 servings of semlor. So while indulgence is encouraged on fettisdagen, it might be best to keep your semla intake to fewer than 10!

This year you can preorder yours at the Swedish American Museum:
Cost per semla -
$5 for members
$6 for non-members.
Last order is taken Sunday, Feb. 19, 6 p.m. Any purchase of more than 4 semlor has to be pre-ordered. We ask you to limit your order to 6 semlor since we get a lot of orders.