Description:

Summer farming, known in Sweden as fäbodkultur and in Norway as seter, is a traditional pastoral practice where livestock (typically cows and goats) are moved in late spring to mountain pastures, known as summer farms. There, milkmaids (historically the main caretakers, though today entire families participate) tend to the animals, produce dairy goods like cheese and butter, maintain fences and farm buildings, and engage in land management and handicraft traditions. The practice is also rich in intangible elements. Herding calls (like the distinctive high‑pitched kulning), storytelling, songs, rituals, folklore, and performances reflect deep cultural ties to the landscape. In December 2024, summer farming was inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of The Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.  

There are not many active summer farms left, but there are actions taken to keep the heritage alive. One of them is the Summer Farm Week in Sweden (Fäbodveckan), which is arranged in cooperation between the County Administrative Boards of Jämtland, Dalarna, Västernorrland and Gävleborg, the national Swedish Fäbod Culture Association, and local summer farmers, performers and heritage organisations.  During this week, usually in the start of July, activities with summer farm themes are arranged such as guided visits to active summer farms, concerts, courses and lectures. This also includes summer camps for children who get to spend time at a summer farm and take part in all daily activities.