About Stockholmsmässan
Stockholmsmässan (the Stockholm Exhibition & Congress Centre) is Scandinavia’s largest trade fair and convention facility, located at Mässvägen 1 in the Älvsjö district of Stockholm. It was founded in 1942 by the Claeson brothers as “S:t Erik’s fair,” later moved to Älvsjö in 1971, and renamed Stockholmsmässan in 1976. The centre covers roughly 70,000 m² of halls and meeting rooms, making it the Nordic region’s leading exhibition venue. It can host around 30,000 people at once and is owned by the City of Stockholm, reflecting its economic and cultural importance. Historic milestones include two EU summits (2001 and 2009) and the UN’s Stockholm+50 meeting in 2022. A major expansion in 2009 solidified its status as the largest expo complex in the region.
The architecture blends scale with style: exhibition halls are massive flat spaces, and the Victoria Hall is a grand 2,000-seat auditorium. Notably, the AE Hall (completed 2010) features an indoor pond, atria with birch trees and green roofs, and a distinctive perforated-steel facade that lights up at night. The entire centre emphasizes innovation and sustainability – for example, it became ISO-20121 certified for sustainable events – and it boasts state-of-the-art infrastructure (high-speed wired Internet and a Wi-Fi network with 500+ access points). This mix of historical legacy, cutting-edge tech and green design makes Stockholmsmässan a special landmark in Stockholm’s venue scene.
Events and Programming
Stockholmsmässan hosts hundreds of events each year across many industries and interests. Major categories include:
Trade Fairs: Interior design and furniture (Formex held in January and August; Stockholm Furniture Fair held in February), home and garden (Hem & Villa, Allt för sjön boat show in early March, Nordiska Trädgårdar), craft and hobby expos, and industry-specific shows.Consumer Expos: Popular public events like Stockholm Dog Fair (Hundmässan), food & wine shows, travel and tourism fairs, health and wellness expos (Allt för Hälsan), as well as education and career fairs (Gymnasiemässan, Lärkraft).Tech & Gaming: Gaming festivals (DreamHack Stockholm in November), data center and IT forums, and other B2B technology conferences.Health & Industry: Medical and dental congresses (e.g. Odontologisk Riksstämma), caregiving and elderly care expos, security & defense fairs (Skydd, Totalförsvarsmässan), travel trade (Travel News Market). Recurring Events: Many fairs are annual or bi-annual. For example, Formex is the Nordic design industry’s key expo in midwinter, while the Furniture Fair ties into Stockholm Design Week. The schedule shifts each year, so check the official calendar for dates.Special Conferences & Performances: The Victoria Hall hosts large conferences, concerts and gala dinners. In recent years it’s been used for international summits (EU presidencies) and cultural gala events. Concerts or shows here seat up to 2,000 people.Ticket Prices: Pricing depends on the event. Public trade fairs typically charge around 100–300 SEK for a day ticket (with reduced rates for seniors/children), while business conferences or multi-day festivals cost more. For example, multi-day festival passes and VIP packages can run higher, so always check the event’s official prices and sales schedule.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for shows at Stockholmsmässan are usually sold through each event’s organizer rather than a central box office. In practice, you buy tickets on the event’s official website or via Stockholmsmässan’s online calendar. Popular events often announce on-sale dates months in advance (for example, DreamHack Stockholm tickets typically go on sale in spring for a November festival). For general attendees, it’s wise to book early online because many fairs do not sell out completely, but queues for day passes can form quickly.
Seating and Layout
Stockholmsmässan is a complex of vast, flexible spaces rather than a single fixed-seat arena. The main exhibition halls (A, B, C, etc.) are large flat floors – Hall A and Hall C each measure roughly 26,000 m² and can hold about 9,000 people each when fully packed. These halls normally host booths and standing displays. There are no permanent seats in the big halls except if an organizer brings in chairs for a conference session. Sightlines on the flat floors are generally clear; for the best view of a stage or presentation, stand near the center of the hall rather than at the far edges or too close to the front without cushions (sound can be loud at the front row).
The one built-in auditorium, Victoria Hall, has fixed theatre seating for up to 2,000 spectators. It is used for concerts, keynote sessions or gala shows. In Victoria Hall, the optimal seats are in the center sections a few rows back (these balance visibility and sound). Avoid extreme side seats, as sound can reflect off the walls. Smaller conference rooms and meeting halls around the complex can be arranged variously (theatre, classroom or banquet style) according to organisers’ needs. In practice, if you have general admission, central positions in any hall give you the best overall experience, while balconies or raised areas (when available) offer a bird’s-eye perspective on busy trade fair floors.
Getting There and Parking
By Public Transport: Stockholmsmässan is immediately adjacent to Älvsjö station on Stockholm’s commuter rail network. Trains from Central Station to Älvsjö run about every 5–10 minutes and take roughly 9 minutes. Additional SL bus lines also serve Älvsjö directly. From Arlanda Airport, take the Pendeltåg (usually a direct or one-change ride) to Älvsjö, which takes under 50 minutes. (Note: The Stockholm Metro (Tunnelbana) does not reach Älvsjö; use commuter trains instead.)By Car: Drive south on the E4/E20 motorway and follow signs to “Älvsjö/Mässan.” There are nearly 2,000 parking spaces in on-site garages and lots, with extra overflow parking (up to 700 spaces) available at a nearby sports field during large fairs. Parking is paid via smartphone apps (EasyPark, Parkster) or pay machines. Rates are about 65 SEK per hour in the multi-storey garage (190 SEK flat rate per 24 h) and 55 SEK per hour in the outdoor lots (170 SEK per day). Electric vehicles have dedicated chargers (32 charging points in P2) and pay only the normal parking fee. Reserved disabled parking spots (roughly 25 spaces) are located near the main entrance and garage, and a disabled permit is valid in all lots.Drop-off and Taxis: A drop-off zone is located in front of the main entrance (near Scandic Talk’s ramp). Taxis and ride-shares can pull up there. Many major taxi companies serve the area; apps (Uber/Bolt etc.) and local Cabonline operate widely. After events end, some visitors return to the city by taxi. (Later at night, SL trains run less frequently, so plan accordingly.)Bicycles: Dedicated bike racks stand opposite the fountain at the main entrance, and additional bike parking (including locked bike boxes) are available near Älvsjö station. The site is well connected to local bike lanes.
Inside the Venue
Entry & Security: Enter through the main hall entrances where you present your ticket or badge. Depending on the event’s rules, there may be bag-checks or metal detectors for safety. Staff will scan tickets electronically. Large strollers or luggage may have to be left (coat check or lockers), so arrive prepared. The premises are monitored by CCTV and have visible emergency exit signage.Facilities & Services: Once inside, you’ll find information desks at key entrances to answer questions. Visitor services offer things like coat check and lost-and-found. Self-service lockers (coin-operated) may be available for exhibitors or attendees needing to store small bags. Free Wi-Fi covers all halls (the network of 500+ access points keeps the whole centre online). Most fixed restaurants and locations accept credit cards.Food & Drink: There are 12 permanent on-site dining outlets (from quick snack bars to sit-down restaurants) serving coffee, sandwiches, salads, burgers, Asian bowls and full meals. Menus are varied (including vegetarian/vegan options), and all use sustainably sourced ingredients. A convenience kiosk outside Hall B also offers sandwiches and snacks. Outside food and drink is generally not allowed on the exhibit floors, but bottled water and snacks can be consumed in seating areas. All restaurants are wheelchair accessible.Restrooms & Family: Clean toilets are placed throughout every hall and near entrances. Family/accessible restrooms are available at each main entrance and on gallery levels. Baby-changing facilities are provided; no showers are on site. Attendants clean facilities regularly during events.Connectivity: High-speed internet is built in. A wired LAN port is included in every conference room, and the standard Wi-Fi link provides ~100 Mbps per client (upgradeable to 1 Gbps). For attendees, free Wi-Fi login is often made available for visitors, and mobile coverage is excellent inside. Charging outlets and USB ports are found in meeting rooms and some lobby areas if you need a quick top-up.Accessibility: The entire venue is designed for accessibility – all main halls and restaurants are on one level or served by elevators. Ramp access is provided. If needed, you can borrow a wheelchair free of charge from the main info desk. Hearing loop systems are installed in major halls (including Victoria Hall, K1, K2, etc.) to assist the hard of hearing. Signage with braille and audio induction loops further aid inclusivity.
Nearby Amenities
Restaurants & Bars: The easiest dining options are inside Stockholmsmässan (as noted above). Outside the venue, the Älvsjö area has few restaurants; expect mostly fast-food cafes and a convenience shop (Pressbyrån) at the station. For more choice, attendees often head into central Stockholm via train (the trip is only a few minutes). The Scandic Talk Hotel (attached) has a lobby bar and a full-service restaurant (“Meet” on the second floor) that are open to the public and visitors during events .Hotels: Scandic Talk (previously Rica Talk) is physically connected to the fairgrounds – an 18-floor hotel with 248 rooms and meeting facilities . It is the most convenient option. Another nearby hotel is the Scandic Älvsjö (about 1 km away). Many visitors also book in downtown Stockholm or in Solna (where mall-of-Scandinavia area hotels are ~10–15 minutes by Pendeltåg). When big fairs happen, hotels in the city can fill up fast, so it’s wise to book early.Entertainment: The immediate neighborhood is mostly residential and commercial; nightlife is not a feature of Älvsjö. After late events people typically travel back into Stockholm or find a hotel. If staying late, know that commuter trains run until around 00:30–01:00 and then a reduced night bus service. Taxis or rideshares are plentiful for after-hours transport.Other Services: There is an ATM (bankomat) inside the venue complex (near the hotel lobby). Basic shops and a pharmacy are a short walk from Älvsjö station if needed. The fairground is safe and well-staffed, but always keep personal items secure in any crowded public space.
What Makes This Venue Special
Legendary Scale and History: Few venues match Stockholmsmässan for longevity and size. It opened its Älvsjö campus in 1971 with Swedish royalty in attendance and has expanded through the decades. It has repeatedly served as the site for high-profile events – from major EU summits (Sweden’s presidencies) to international conferences. The fact that Stockholm filmmakers, design fairs, and global meetings all converge here gives it a unique cultural legacy.Architectural Highlights: The fairgrounds blend Nordic design with natural features. A standout example is the “AE Hall” (2010): its nearly 100 m glass frontage looks onto an outdoor pond and fountain, and inside it contains three indoor atriums where white birch trees grow . The atria’s sedum green roofs further integrate nature. Externally, a massive perforated aluminum facade wraps sections of the halls like a giant basket, with integrated LED lighting . These design touches (mirrored ceilings in walkways, greenery walls) set Stockholmsmässan apart from a mundane convention center.Technology and Innovation: Stockholmsmässan was an early adopter of advanced event tech – it now boasts one of the fastest in-venue networks in the world. It implemented venue-wide 1 Gbit fiber backbones, nearly 500 Wi-Fi antennas, and dynamic digital wayfinding over a decade ago. The adaptable lighting rigs in halls (color LEDs in Victoria Hall) and sound systems handle everything from big concerts to speeches. Organizers even highlight that Nobel Buffet quality catering is on-site (via their restaurant contractor) – a point of pride that underscores the venue’s high standards.Community Impact: More than a building, Stockholmsmässan is a hub that energizes Stockholm’s economy and culture. It draws roughly 1.5 million visitors per year from Sweden and abroad , spurring business at hotels, restaurants and shops. It also delivers a sense of tradition; for many Swedes it’s the place where fairs and festivals occur. Designers launch new furniture lines here, tech startups demo their products, and children’s eyes light up at the toy and dog shows. That sense of shared community and responsibility (especially around sustainability) gives the venue character beyond bricks and mortar.Versatility and Vibe: The combination of grand scale and human-scale comfort is notable. On one hand, you have cavernous halls big enough for 9,000 standing-room visitors each; on the other hand, there are intimate lounge areas and a cozy café called “Indoor Garden” (a glass-walled restaurant) for quieter moments. Staff often cite feedback like “world-class service” at this venue. For attendees, the experience of strolling through a big Stockholm expo – complete with friendly Swedish hospitality – makes visiting Stockholmsmässan memorable.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The venue is designed for everyone. All entrances and restaurants are on level ground, and elevators connect any split levels. Wide ramps and doorways accommodate wheelchairs and strollers. If you need assistance, stock up on the free services: loaner wheelchairs are at the main info desk (bring an ID), and hearing-impaired visitors can borrow audio receivers for the induction loops in major halls . Permitted service dogs are welcome. People with disabilities often get free or discounted admission (and a companion ticket) at many fairs, but check the event details online.What to Bring: Wear comfortable, flat shoes – the halls cover a lot of ground. Dress in layers (conference rooms can be warm under lights while exhibit halls may feel cool). Bring a portable charger for your phone as you’ll likely use it for photos, exhibitor info and directions. Carry a reusable water bottle (there are water stations), and pack light (you can store belongings in onsite lockers or coat check if needed). If attending a specific industry fair, consider bringing business cards and a notebook.Don’t Bring: Do not plan to bring large luggage, as there is no general baggage storage beyond coat checks. Avoid expensive jewelry or valuables in crowded areas. Check the event’s rules about outside food/drink (some fairs prohibit it, except bottled water). Firearms, fireworks or any weapons are strictly forbidden (as in any public building). Unless it’s a pet expo or you have a certified service animal, do not bring pets inside.Age Restrictions: Most fairs and exhibitions allow all ages (children often enter free or cheaply), but a few events may be 18+ (for example, film or tech gatherings) or recommend parental guidance (like some machinery/parts shows). Check the specific show’s FAQ online. Concerts or evening events sometimes limit to age 13+ or 18+, so buy tickets accordingly.Photography: Casual photos and video for personal use are usually fine in the halls, but avoid flash in dark auditoriums or inside booths if exhibitors object. Professional photography or filming for commercial use requires organizer permission. In any case, never photograph people without permission or take pictures in areas marked as private or “no cameras.”Cloakrooms & Amenities: If it’s chilly outside, use the onsite coat check at the main entrance. There’s usually a small fee, but it makes moving around easier. Restrooms and baby-changing facilities are plentiful. Restaurants accept credit cards; you almost never need cash (except for parking machines, where cards or mobile pay apps work better).Time Management: Check the event’s schedule beforehand – many large trade fairs close by mid-afternoon on Saturday or have no evening hours. If an exhibitor hall reopens after 9 AM, be on time to see prime demos. For midday meals, avoid the 12:00–13:00 rush by eating a little later or earlier. The final day of a multi-day fair is often quieter with shorter lines.Local Notes: Swedes tend to be on time, so plan your visit carefully. If you arrive early, there are usually few sights around Älvsjö, so most visitors wait in the cafes. Out of courtesy, queue in marked lines at food counters. No tipping is expected – a simple “tack” means thanks. English is spoken everywhere, so don’t worry about language. Finally, if you have a chance, take a stroll to the entrance plaza under the fountain – it’s a common meeting spot and gives a good photo of the venue’s exterior.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the capacity of Stockholmsmässan?
The total centre covers about 70,000 square metres. Halls A and C each hold roughly 9,000 people, so combined they accommodate around 18,000, and all halls together can handle up to 30,000 visitors at once. The Victoria Hall auditorium has fixed seating for 2,000 people.
What is the address of Stockholmsmässan and how do I get there?
Stockholmsmässan is located at Mässvägen 1, Älvsjö, in southern Stockholm (125 30). The nearest public transit is Älvsjö station (pendeltåg commuter rail). Trains from Stockholm Central take about 9 minutes. Many SL buses also stop near the venue. By car, use the E4/E20 highway and follow signs for Mässan/Älvsjö. The facility is well-signed from main roads.
Is parking available at Stockholmsmässan, and how much does it cost?
Yes. There are about 2,000 spaces on-site (garages and lots) plus 700 overflow spaces at a nearby football field during big fairs. Parking is paid by app (EasyPark/Parkster) or card at machines. Typical rates are around 65 SEK/hour (190 SEK daily) in covered garages, or 55 SEK/hour (170 SEK daily) in outdoor lots. Electric vehicles can charge for free (just pay the parking fee). Disabled permit drivers have 25 reserved spots near the main doors, and their permit is valid in any space.
Where can I buy tickets for events at Stockholmsmässan?
Tickets are sold by each event’s organizer. In other words, you usually buy through the specific event’s website or through the official Stockholmsmässan event calendar. Some events may have a box office or ticket desk at the venue on event days, but popular shows often require advance online purchase. To ensure a spot, check the event’s press releases and buy early. Ticket prices and summaries are listed on the event pages.
What types of events are held at Stockholmsmässan?
A huge variety! The venue hosts industry trade fairs (design, construction, education, technology, healthcare, etc.), consumer expos (home & garden, pets, boating, crafts), gaming and digital festivals (DreamHack Stockholm), and professional conferences (medical, dental, corporate summits). It also occasionally serves as a concert or gala venue (especially in Victoria Hall). In short, expect anything from a dog show to a tech summit. Check the schedule to see what’s on during your visit.
What food and drink options are available inside the venue?
Stockholmsmässan has 12 restaurants and cafes on site. You can get coffee, pastries, sandwiches, burgers, salads, Asian bowls and full lunch entrées. Examples include café-style places like “Caffè Galleria” and full-service eateries like “Bowls & Buns.” Menus always include vegetarian and other healthy options. There are also bars for drinks. Food courts are wheelchair-accessible. If you need a quick snack, a convenience booth (Pressbyrån) sells sandwiches and snacks by Hall B. No need to bring outside food, as these vendors cover all tastes.
Is Stockholmsmässan wheelchair accessible? Are there special facilities?
Yes. All halls, restaurants and meeting rooms have ramp or elevator access (no steps or curbs). There are about 25 reserved parking spaces for disabled permit holders near the entrance. Wide pathways and seating areas accommodate wheelchairs. Loaner wheelchairs are free from the main information desk (show ID). Accessible restrooms are by every entrance and in exhibition halls. Hearing loops are installed in the main auditoriums (e.g. Victoria Hall) and a few conference rooms to help those with hearing aids. Service dogs are welcome.
Can I smoke or vape inside the venue?
No. By Swedish law, smoking (and vaping) is banned inside all public venues, including Stockholmsmässan. There are designated smoking areas outside (away from doors) where cigarette smoking is allowed. Always follow signage for the closest outdoor smoking zone.
Is there free Wi-Fi throughout Stockholmsmässan?
Yes. Stockholmsmässan provides a robust free wireless network that covers the entire complex (approximately 500 access points in all). You can connect in every hall, meeting room, restaurant and lobby. Internet connectivity is very reliable and designed to handle large crowds, so you should have no trouble using data or email on-site.
What public transit stops should I use for Stockholmsmässan?
Take the SL commuter train (Pendeltåg) to Älvsjö station – it’s right next to the venue. Trains run from Stockholm Central (Innerstaden) every few minutes and drop you a short walk from the doors. Several SL bus lines also stop at Älvsjö Station or nearby. There is no metro (Tunnelbana) station at Älvsjö, so rely on the commuter rail or bus network to get here easily.
Are there accommodation options attached to the venue?
Yes, the on-site Scandic Talk Hotel (formerly Rica Talk) is connected by bridge to the fair centre. It has 18 floors and 248 rooms, plus its own dining and fitness facilities. It’s the most convenient choice for fair attendees. Other nearby hotels include Scandic Älvsjö and various central Stockholm hotels a short train ride away. Booking early is recommended during major fairs.
Are pets allowed in Stockholmsmässan?
Only service animals are allowed inside. Certified assistance dogs (guide dogs, hearing or alert dogs) are welcome, and of course dogs participating in dog shows are permitted when relevant. But generally outside of pet-related exhibits, visitors may not bring pets into the halls.
Is photography allowed inside Stockholmsmässan?
For personal use, yes. Guests may take photos or video for their own enjoyment. However, exhibitors or speakers sometimes request no flash or no photography in certain areas. Always respect any “no photos” signage, and don’t disrupt others or breach privacy. Professional or broadcast filming requires organizer permission.
What should I wear to an event at Stockholmsmässan?
Dress is generally casual or business casual. For trade fairs and exhibitions, visitors typically wear comfortable clothes and shoes since there’s a lot of walking. For conferences or gala dinners (like in Victoria Hall), business attire or a nice evening outfit might be expected. Check if your event specifies a dress code. Either way, layers are handy for varying indoor temperatures.
Are there restaurants or cafés on-site and what are their opening hours?
Yes. There are 12 eateries, including cafés and restaurants, serving everything from coffee and pastries to full hot meals. Menus include sandwiches, burgers, Asian bowls (Bowls & Buns), salads, and more. Opening hours vary with each event’s schedule. Generally, venues open before show start (around 8–9 AM) and stay open until early evening. Check on-site maps or ask visitor services for exact locations and hours.
How early should I arrive for an event?
It’s best to arrive at least 20–30 minutes before the event start time. This allows you to find parking or navigate the station and get through check-in without rushing. Major exhibitions can have queues at the main gates, especially on opening day or weekend mornings. Early arrival also helps if you want to secure good seats for a talk or concert (especially before it fills up).
Do I need cash on hand at Stockholmsmässan?
No. Sweden is largely cashless indoors. All on-site restaurants, cafés and shops accept credit/debit cards and mobile payments. Parking payment is also typically done via apps or card. If you want to tip or make a small purchase, card is fine. Having a small amount of Swedish kronor (€uro/US$ are not widely accepted) is only necessary if you plan to buy from street vendors outside the venue.
