Birka Gotland is once again buzzing with the energy of the Dansbandsvekkan, kicking off its 2026 season Sunday evening after a successful transition from the larger ship cinderella.It’s a scene that’s become a beloved tradition for dance music fans, and this year promises even more space to groove.
The annual dance band week on Birka Gotland offers seven departures filled with music and dancing.
- The dance week began Sunday, January 18, with performances by Streaplers and Wahlströms.
- The smaller Sailing Track has been replaced by the larger Conference Track on deck 6.
- Cruises on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday are proving particularly popular, with Viking Line urging fans to book quickly.
- Carolina Skaarup Lagerborg of Callinaz is serving as a “special host” throughout the week.
For those unfamiliar, Dansbandsvekkan-a haven for fans of Swedish dance band music-moved to Birka Gotland in 2025, after years on the Viking Cinderella. while a bit cozier, Birka Gotland proved a worthy successor, and organizers have been refining the experience ever as.
“It’s fantastic to be back on Birka Gotland,” exclaimed Lasse Sigfridsson, during a live broadcast, shared his enthusiasm: “The whole dance band industry is here and playing, it’s going to be a happening – it’s great fun to play here, there’s music all over the boat and there’s not a quiet moment anywhere.”
Viking Line AB, the company behind Dansbandsvekkan, is also anticipating a lively week. Communications manager eleonora Hansi noted that cruises departing on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday are particularly in demand. “If you want to go on thes departures, it is extra urgent to book the cruise now,” she advised.
Beyond the bands, attendees can look forward to dance classes led by Tony Irving and Danssköldarna (PA and Marie Sköld). Tur-Åke Lindqvist, a long-time figure in the dance band scene, will also be onboard, and Callinaz singer Carolina Skaarup Lagerborg is serving as a “special host” throughout the week.
The dance band week at Birka Gotland, which began Sunday, January 18, will continue with seven departures. The full program can be found here.
