In most countries, Easter is associated with chocolate eggs, family gatherings and religious celebrations, however, in Norway, a rather unique tradition takes centre stage: crime fiction.

Known as Påskekrim, which translates to "Easter Crime," this tradition sees Norwegians immerse themselves in crime novels, TV dramas and radio thrillers throughout the Easter holiday. But, how did this unusual custom begin, and why has it remained so popular?

Here’s a brief history of the fascinating link between crime and Easter in Norway.

The Origins of Påskekrim

The roots of Påskekrim can be traced back to 1923 when two Norwegian authors, Nordahl Grieg and Nils Lie, devised a clever marketing stunt to promote their new crime novel.

The book, titled ‘Bergenstoget plyndret i natt!’ (the Bergen train was robbed last night!), was heavily advertised in newspapers with the headline appearing so convincingly like a real news report that many readers believed a train robbery had actually taken place, and the campaign was such a massive success that the book became a bestseller.

But unintentionally, this publicity stunt sparked a nationwide appetite for crime fiction during Easter, with publishers quickly capitalising on the trend.

Over the years, the tradition solidified, and now, every Easter, bookstores in Norway are filled with new crime releases, television channels schedule crime dramas, and even milk cartons featuring mini crime stories for people to solve over breakfast.

Why Focus on Crime at Easter?

There are several theories as to why crime fiction and Easter became so deeply intertwined in Norway, with one particular reason being that Easter in Norway is a time for long holidays and relaxation where many Norwegians take extended breaks to the mountains or countryside and choose to unwind with a good book – and since crime fiction is engaging and suspenseful, it makes for perfect holiday reading.

Another theory ties into Norway’s long, dark winters, as the country has a deep cultural appreciation for storytelling – especially for gripping narratives that help pass the time, such as crime fiction with its intricate plots and psychological depth.

But there may also be a subconscious link between the themes of crime fiction such as justice, morality and redemption, and the religious aspects of Easter as well. For example, whilst Easter marks a period of reflection and rebirth in Christianity, crime fiction often explores the journey from chaos to resolution, offering a different but parallel sense of closure.

What Does Påskekrim Look Like in Modern Norway?

Today, Påskekrim is an essential part of Norwegian culture, and the country’s publishing industry sees a spike in crime fiction sales every Easter with many authors timing their book releases to coincide with the holiday.

In fact, Norwegian crime fiction authors like Jo Nesbø, Karin Fossum and Anne Holt have gained international recognition, and their novels are often among the top choices for Easter reading. Meanwhile, television networks have also began curate special Easter crime drama line-ups, with Nordic Noir series, detective thrillers and classic whodunits taking centre stage.

But the crime obsession during Easter is not just limited to books and TV shows, as the Norwegian media have embraced Påskekrim in creative ways of incorporating crime-related content into different formats such as:

• Radio dramas; NRK, Norway’s national broadcaster, airs thrilling radio dramas specifically for Easter.
• True crime podcasts; popular Norwegian podcasts release special Easter crime episodes, diving into real-life mysteries and cold cases.
• Crime-themed board games; families and friends embrace detective-style games over the holiday, adding an interactive element to the tradition.
• Library and bookstore promotions; many libraries and bookshops set up dedicated Påskekrim sections to offer recommendations and host crime fiction events.
• Social media challenges; readers share their Påskekrim picks and theories online, with book clubs and influencers getting involved in the crime fiction craze.
• Cinema screenings; classic detective films and Nordic Noir thrillers often make a return to the big screen during Easter.
• Escape rooms and murder mysteries; many hotels and resorts offer special crime-themed activities, including immersive murder mystery weekends where guests play detective.

The Importance of Investment in Criminal Law and Forensic Expertise

Påskekrim may be a cultural tradition, but its themes of justice, investigation and forensic science highlight a crucial real-world issue - the need for ongoing investment in criminal law and forensic expertise.

This is because, solving complex cases requires resources, funding, and specialist knowledge to ensure that evidence is examined thoroughly, investigations are conducted properly, and legal proceedings remain fair and accurate.

This means that continued investment in forensic science, expert witness services and legal analysis will be needed to strengthen the justice system. For example, advancements in DNA analysis, digital forensics and psychological assessments have transformed criminal investigations, but without proper funding, access to these vital services can be limited.

As a result, law firms, government bodies and private organisations must continue to support these areas to uphold justice and ensure legal teams have access to the expertise they need.

Foresight plays a key role in providing legal professionals with access to forensic scientists, psychologists, crime scene analysts and other specialists – with expert testimony and in-depth analysis, we help law firms build strong, evidence-based cases.

With our support, legal professionals can approach even the most complex cases with confidence, ensuring that evidence is thoroughly examined, testimony is robust, and justice is upheld.

If you would like to talk to our team about instructing one of our experts, please get in touch.