Sillens Helg Marstrand 2027: Herring Festival on the West Coast

Welcome to Sillens Helg 2027 in Marstrand

On June 5 and 6, 2027, the harbour of the small island town of Marstrand on the Swedish west coast once again turns into a lively celebration of herring. Sillens Helg is a long running local tradition in which the restaurants of Marstrand compete for the best pickled herring, while visitors taste their way along the sunny quays and join in the festivities.

Highlights and Attractions at Sillens Helg in Marstrand

• A friendly competition among Marstrand's restaurants for the best pickled herring recipe
• Tasting and voting at every participating restaurant with the so called Sillpass
• The crowning of the yearly Silldrottning and Sillkung, the herring queen and king
• The much loved Sillrace, one of the weekend's signature events
• A historical exhibition covering the region's long herring fishing tradition
• A dedicated area for children plus guided walking tours through the old town
• Live music and a festive parade that brings the harbour and narrow streets to life

Program and Schedule: What to Expect in Marstrand

Sillens Helg opens Saturday from noon until about 5 pm and Sunday from noon until 4 pm, with the Sillrace closing already at 3 pm on Sunday. Across the weekend, visitors can join guided historical walks, a musical parade, cookbook presentations and tastings at each participating restaurant. The weekend builds toward the announcement of the Sillrace winner and the crowning of the new herring king or queen.

Tickets and Admission for Sillens Helg Marstrand

Entry to the festival itself is free, but tasting requires a Sillpass. For the 2027 edition it costs 225 Swedish kronor, roughly 20 euros, and covers tastings of every participating pickled herring plus a vote for your favorite. The Sillpass can be bought online through Tickster or on site in Marstrand, including at the information tent and by the ferry landing on the neighboring island of Koön.

Visitor Tips: Travel and Accommodation in Marstrand

• Marstrand sits on an island, so most visitors drive to Koön and then take the short ferry across to the old town
• Since it is a small island town, accommodation for the festival weekend should be booked well ahead
• Early June weather on the west coast can still be changeable, so a light jacket is worth packing
• Visitors hoping to sample several restaurants should plan enough time to enjoy the whole weekend