The Nobel Banquet: Royal, Elegant and Simple
A true Nordic and royal celebration
The Nobel Prize Dinner is a prestigious event held every year to honor the laureates who have made significant contributions to humanity. The subjects honored include: physics, chemistry, medicine, literature, peace and economics. The grand banquet is not only a celebration of intellectual and humanitarian achievements but also a showcase of Swedish culture and culinary excellence.
Schedule of the “Social event of the year”
16.00 - 17.30: Awards ceremony
19.00 - 23.30: The Nobel banquet
The history and significance of the Nobel Prize
The Nobel Prize was established in 1895 through the will of Alfred Nobel, a Swedish inventor, chemist and philanthropist. Nobel envisioned a world where knowledge and innovation could improve society and he allocated his fortune to create prizes that would honor those whose work conferred “the greatest benefit to mankind”.
The first Nobel Prizes were awarded in 1901, and since then, they have become symbols of excellence and progress in their respective fields. The awards are held on December 10th each year, the anniversary of Alfred Nobel’s death. It not only celebrates the laureates but also reflects on the values of creativity, collaboration, cultural exchange that Nobel championed.
The traditions behind the dinner
The Nobel Banquet is steeped in tradition. Since its inception in 1901, it has evolved into an elaborate event with customs:
Formal dress code: white tie for men and evening gowns for women
Ceremonial toasts: Two main toasts - one to honor the Swedish monarch and another by the monarch in memory of Alfred Nobel
Laureat speeches: Each laureate delivers a speech during the dinner. These speeches are often lighthearted yet profound reflections on their work
Table settings: The meticulous arrangement includes over 6,700 pieces of porcelain, 5,384 glasses and 9,422 pieces of cutlery laid out across 65 tables in Stockholm City Hall’s Blue Hall.
Entertainment is also an essential feature of the evening, with live music performances throughout the dinner.
Venue: Stockholm City Hall
Since 1934, the banquet has been held in the Blue Hall at Stockholm City Hall. This iconic venue was chosen for its capacity to host over 1,300 guests, including members of the Swedish royal family, laureates, dignitaries and students. The Blue Hall’s grand architecture provides an elegant backdrop for this celebrated event. After dinner, guests move up to the Golden Hall for dancing under its shimmering mosaics.
Chefs of 2024: Jessie Sommarström and Frida Bäcke
Each year, chefs are selected especially for the event. They are usually celebrated figures in Sweden’s culinary scene and brings unique styles to the menu.
Jessie Sommarström, responsible for appetizer and main course, is known for her innovative approach to sustainable cooking. She emphasizes local ingredients and modern interpretations of traditional dishes.
Frida Bäcke, as pastry chef, brings her expertise in crafting intricate desserts that blend artistry with flavor.
The Menu
The menu at the Nobel Banquet is a closely guarded secret until the night of the event. It always features three courses that highlight Scandinavian flavors and ingredients while reflecting global influences.
Appetizer
Goat cheese from Östergötland filled with lovage. Served with beets, honey and quince glaze.
Main Course
Quenelle of chicken, legumes and autumn truffle. Celeriac glazed with miso on broad beans and a cabbage bouquet with herbs and apple. Served with a modern cultural creamed steel-cut barley with wild mushrooms, Jerusalem artichoke and roasted chicken jus.
Dessert
Terrine from caramelized apples, brown butter cake, cream of quince fruit, served with ice cream made with pineapple and punsch liqueur.
Each dish is paired with selected wines to enhance its flavors.
Post-dinner activities
After dinner concludes, the guests ascend to the Golden Hall for dancing. This part of the evening is less formal but equally significant as it allows attendees to socialize and celebrate in a relaxed atmosphere.
For laureates, it offers an opportunity to connect with fellow honorees and dignitaries from around the world. The event concludes late into the night.
Conclusion
The Nobel Prize Banquet is much more than a meal — it is a celebration of human achievement and cultural heritage. From its history to its traditions and exquisite cuisine, every aspect reflects Alfred Nobel’s vision for progress through knowledge and collaboration.
Additional Information
About Alfred Nobel and the Nobel Prize
2024 Nobel Prize Award ceremony link below.