My First Snow in Lund ❄️

For many, snow is just another part of winter—a normal, even unremarkable event. But for international students like me, coming from tropical countries where snow is nothing more than a distant dream, experiencing the first snowy day is nothing short of magical! ❄️✨

Growing up in Peru, snow was something I only saw in movies or read about in books. 📖🍿 It seemed like a fairytale—a world where everything is covered in a sparkling white blanket. Then, on November 20th, that dream became a reality in Lund. It wasn’t just me who felt the magic; many of my fellow international students described it as stepping into a winter wonderland (yeah, I’m watching all your IG stories!). ⛄🌨️

That day was full of heartwarming moments 🥰, but also a few surprises that reminded me snow isn’t all play! Let me share the cute and whimsical parts of that snowy day, along with the challenges I faced—and how you can be prepared for them too. 🧥🧤

The Magic of Snow

As I mentioned before, all of us international students were eagerly waiting for the snow to arrive. ❄️ Especially if you live in Lund, you know snow isn’t an everyday thing since we’re in the southern part of Sweden. So, when our weather apps finally showed the little snowflake icon, we couldn’t have been happier! 🥳 But—because weather loves to keep us guessing—we weren’t entirely sure it would actually happen.

That day, I made plans with one of my best friends from my master’s program to be outside right when the snow was supposed to start. ⏰ We ended up waiting at a bus stop (not the most glamorous spot, but it worked!) when, finally, we saw the first snowflakes fall!

At first, snow feels like tiny pieces of soft white sand gently landing on your coat. 🧥 It was such a beautiful moment—a perfect scene for photos! My friend and I immediately started recording videos and snapping pictures. 📸 Not long after, my Instagram feed was filled with IG stories from my friends, all celebrating the first snowflakes and sharing how excited they were.

In some cultures, the first snowfall is believed to have magical properties—a time when wishes can come true. ✨ As I stood there, watching the snow fall for the first time, I reflected on how special this moment was. If I hadn’t decided to come to Sweden, I would’ve never experienced this. I felt so grateful for everything I’ve achieved and for being here now. 💛

And let me tell you, I finally get the hype about a white Christmas! 🎄 Growing up in Peru, Christmas meant summer, sunshine, and warm nights—so nothing close to a snowy wonderland. Seeing snow now makes me understand why it’s such a big deal in all those holiday movies.

Challenges! Be prepared

Of course, after snapping some pictures and moving from the bus stop to Nova, Lund’s big shopping mall, we quickly discovered the downside of snow. ❄️ That day, it started snowing really hard, and we had to walk outside for a few minutes. Let me tell you—it was a learning experience!

We definitely made some rookie mistakes. 😅 We were out in regular coats and scarves, but nothing that could protect us from getting wet. And here’s the thing about snow: it melts! By the time we got to Nova, my hair was completely soaked. 🫠 Luckily, my friend had a beanie to keep her dry, but I wasn’t so prepared.

So, if you’re experiencing snow for the first time, here’s what I’ve learned and my advice to avoid these “oops” moments:

1. Wear Proper Footwear 👢

Boots, especially snow boots, are essential. Snow can get pretty deep, and sneakers just won’t cut it—they’ll leave your feet wet and freezing. Plus, it gets slippery! I saw several friends take tumbles that day. 😬 A Nordic friend told me about spikes or crampons for shoes, and honestly, they’re a game-changer.

2. Choose the Right Coat 🧥

Treat snow like heavy rain because, eventually, it melts. A water-repellent coat is a must! Avoid materials like cotton or wool that soak up water easily.

3. Say No to Jeans 🚫👖

Jeans and snow don’t mix—they get wet and heavy fast. Instead, opt for water-repellent pants or materials designed for winter weather.

4. Layer Up! 🥶

Snow days are freezing, so layers are your best friend. Wear thermal tops, sweaters, and a good coat. Gloves and a beanie are non-negotiable to keep your hands and head warm!

The Playfulness of Snow

While I learned a lot about snow on that first day, I think I enjoyed it even more the next day, when the city was fully covered in a beautiful white blanket, and it wasn’t snowing like crazy anymore. ❄️ Some days in Lund can be quite dark, but with the snow, everything felt brighter and more magical.

Experiencing snow for the first time brought out my inner child—and I wasn’t the only one! I saw snowmen popping up everywhere, and I couldn’t resist trying to make my own (it was a tiny one, but still, it counts! 😂).

Walking through the snowy streets with my friends, we couldn’t help but play around. We kicked the snow with our feet, watched it scatter, and just laughed like kids. It was so simple, yet so fun!

Lund is breathtaking when it’s covered in snow, and I can totally recommend taking a walk to capture some visual memories (or pictures for Instagram 📸). We had nearly two full days of gorgeous snow, and now that it’s melted, I already miss it.

I’m crossing my fingers for more snow soon! Next time, I’ll try making bigger snowmen and maybe even some snow angels. I’m ready to fully embrace my inner child again! 🌨️⛄

How did you spend your first snowy day in Sweden? If you’re not here, tell me—what’s the weather like in your country right now? Would you like to experience snow someday? Let me know in the comments! 😊