Petter Schjerven, the host of popular Norwegian shows “Typisk norsk” and “Typisk deg,” recently discussed the festive spirit and his experiences with holiday traditions at the Spikersuppa Christmas market in Oslo. During the conversation, he addressed the ongoing buzz surrounding his exclusive rakfisk gathering, which has become a recurring topic on the radio programs “Radioresepsjonen” and “Papaya.” Comedians bjarte Tjøstheim and the Sagen brothers, Steinar and Tore, have been part of this narrative, with only Bjarte and Steinar receiving annual invitations. Tore Sagen humorously lamented his exclusion, urging Schjerven to reconsider and give him another chance to join the festive fun.Petter Schjerven’s annual rakfisk party has once again sparked debate, especially due to the absence of popular radio host Tore Sagen from the guest list. This year marked the 14th iteration of the festive gathering, which features customary fermented fish served with various accompaniments, and is a cherished pre-Christmas event for many. Schjerven, who proudly hosts the event at his Oslo home, confirmed that Sagen was not invited after a previous no-show, leading to a humorous yet tense dynamic among friends. Sagen himself described the situation as a “catch 22,” highlighting the complexities of friendship and social invitations in the public eye.Tore Sagen reflects on the long-standing “rakfisk-gate” saga, a humorous tradition that has evolved over the past decade on the popular Norwegian radio show, Radioresepsjonen. Despite his absence from the festive gatherings,Sagen reveals that the guest list for this year’s pre-Christmas festivity includes a star-studded lineup featuring renowned personalities like Atle Antonsen,Linn Skåber,and Steinar Sagen. He humorously notes that some guests may only recieve a one-time invitation,hinting at stricter criteria following his past mishaps. This playful banter adds a light-hearted touch to the holiday season, showcasing the camaraderie and inside jokes that define their unique friendship.In a heartfelt reflection on holiday traditions, a local enthusiast expressed his love for rakfisk, a traditional Norwegian dish, during a recent interview. He reminisced about hosting intimate rakfisk gatherings with his mother,where they enjoyed “comfort rakfisk” together. while he refrained from commenting on his feelings about not being invited to this year’s event hosted by petter Schjerven, he did express uncertainty about whether fellow attendees Steinar Sagen and Bjarte Tjøstheim received invitations. As the festive season approaches,he extended warm wishes to all participants of the rakfisk gathering,hoping they enjoy a joyful Christmas. This story highlights the importance of culinary traditions and community connections during the holidays.
The Festive Spirit of Rakfisk: A Conversation with Petter Schjerven
Time.news Editor: Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Petter schjerven, the beloved host of popular Norwegian shows “Typisk norsk” and “Typisk deg.” Petter, you recently engaged in a delightful discussion about holiday traditions at the Spikersuppa christmas market. What are some of your personal favorite memories associated with the festive season?
Petter Schjerven: Thank you for having me! The festive season is special to me, especially the traditions surrounding it.growing up, I frequently enough spent time with my family preparing for Christmas, which included cooking traditional dishes and enjoying each other’s company. rakfisk has become one of my favorite parts of the festive gatherings, as it brings people together, much like my annual rakfisk party.
Time.news Editor: Your rakfisk gathering has certainly generated a lot of buzz, notably surrounding Tore Sagen’s absence from the guest list this year. Can you tell us more about the dynamics of that situation?
Petter Schjerven: Ah, ”rakfisk-gate” as we like to call it! Over the years, this annual gathering has been filled with laughter and friendly banter. This year marks the 14th gathering, and given Tore’s previous no-show, I felt it was notable to enforce a little bit of protocol. The playful nature of our friendships allows us to joke about these situations, but it also highlights the complexities that arise in social circles, especially in the public eye.
Time.news editor: It’s interesting to see how traditions evolve and take on new meanings. With the involvement of comedians like Bjarte Tjøstheim and the Sagen brothers,what role do you think humor plays in maintaining these festive gatherings?
Petter Schjerven: Humor is at the heart of our gatherings. It’s what makes the experience enjoyable and relaxed. The inside jokes and friendly teasing create a unique atmosphere that everyone looks forward to every year. Even with the exclusion of certain guests,we find ways to keep the spirit alive and maintain those close connections that are essential during the holiday season.
Time.news Editor: You mentioned the camaraderie and connection that come from sharing meals during the holidays. How significant do you believe culinary traditions like rakfisk are in fostering community?
Petter Schjerven: Culinary traditions are incredibly significant! They create opportunities for people to gather, share stories, and bond over food. For many Norwegians, dishes like rakfisk represent comfort and familial ties. This season, I also heard touching reflections from a local enthusiast who fondly remembered sharing rakfisk with his mother, which emphasizes how food truly serves as a vehicle for connection and nostalgia.
time.news Editor: As we enter a new year, what message do you have for those looking to cultivate their own holiday traditions, especially surrounding food and community?
Petter Schjerven: I encourage everyone to embrace their unique traditions, no matter how big or small. Whether it’s cooking a cherished family recipe or simply gathering with friends for a meal, these moments matter. Celebrate the quirks and specialties of your community, like rakfisk for us Norwegians, and don’t be afraid to create your own stories and traditions. The relationships we build during these times are what truly make the holidays magical.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Petter, for sharing your insights and experiences! It’s clear that through laughter, food, and friendship, the holiday spirit shines luminous.
Petter Schjerven: Thank you! Happy holidays to everyone, and may your celebrations be filled with joy and connection.