WHAT WOULD A BALL IN THE CASTLE BE LIKE?
The view from Uppsala Castle stretches over a large area around the city. You can see both the Cathedral and what constitutes the historic centre of the city as it is today. A fabulous castle setting in which to organise balls, banquets or jubilee celebrations.
For a few hundred years, the castle was one of Sweden’s top public venues, accommodating coronation ceremonies, and dramatic deliberations and events. Even today the magnificent halls, galleries and stairwells bring history to life.
A party at Uppsala Castle is a journey through history. It also provides a culinary experience and a venue for music, dance and entertainment. The result is an unforgettable evening for your guests.
WHO CAN BOOK?
Government institutions, municipalities, county councils, universities, associations and student unions can hire the Hall of State for formal occasions.
Private parties are not permitted. Companies may book provided certain conditions are met.
FACTS ABOUT THE HALL OF STATE
Capacity: 550 banquet style, 700 theatre style, 1000 reception style. Disability-friendly: Yes. Catering: Own catering – fully licensed.
FESTIVITIES AT THE CASTLE NOWADAYS
Festivities at Uppsala Castle have developed into what they are today over a long period of time. The setting is still as grand – and these days it is complemented by modern technology. The catering takes its inspiration from traditional castle meals.
Your guests will come in from the castle gardens, leave their coats in the cloakroom and start with a reception in the lower gallery. They will go up the stairs, where they will be overlooked by a royal portrait. A fire will be lit in the hearth. After the reception, they will go into the Hall of State, the Castle’s most illustrious festivities hall.
The maître d’ will start the meal with an account of the history of the Castle and the Hall of State. The maître d’ will then give the sign for the waiting staff to file into the hall and serve the food from silver platters. Dessert will often be accompanied by sparklers and music for extra effect. Uppsala is known for its top-class choirs, such as Orphei Drängar and Allmänna Sången, which will often provide the entertainment.
When dinner is over, the guests will be served coffee and liqueurs in the highest gallery in the castle. The gallery has a view over both Uppsala city and the Botanical Garden. When darkness falls and you can see the lights of the city twinkling, the guests will return to the Hall of State. The evening will be rounded off with dancing to music provided by a big band.