Gothenburg Marks 30 Years of Falun Dafa in Europe with Parades, Conference, and Vigils

GOTHENBURG, Sweden — In September Gothenburg became the heart of a momentous celebration as Falun Dafa practitioners from across Europe gathered to mark the 30th anniversary of the spiritual practice’s introduction to Sweden and the continent. The multi-day event included vibrant parades, a regional cultivation conference, and candlelight vigils calling for an end to the ongoing persecution in China.

Parades through busy streets

On Sept. 20, practitioners held two large parades through Gothenburg’s busy streets, filling the air with traditional Chinese music and the bright colors of lotus flowers and banners. Demonstrations of Falun Dafa’s gentle exercises contrasted with festive drum performances and traditional dance, creating a moving display that drew the attention of passersby. Many stopped to watch, take photos, and speak with practitioners about the practice.

The parades honored the 1995 milestone, when Mr. Li Hongzhi, founder of Falun Dafa, visited Europe at the invitation of practitioners. He held two seminars that year—one in Paris and one in Gothenburg—introducing the principles of Truthfulness, Compassion, and Forbearance to European people. From that moment, Falun Dafa began to spread widely across the continent.

Taxi driver Kia Darafkan watched the parade while he took a break from work. “I found this parade unique and interesting. The melodies are pleasant and special, and not something I’ve heard before,” he said. “I like them, and I hope to know more about the meaning behind the music.”

Nordic practitioners share experiences

On Sept. 21, the Nordic Falun Dafa Cultivation Experience Sharing Conference brought together practitioners from Sweden, Norway, Finland, Denmark, and other European countries. In heartfelt speeches, participants described how the practice had helped them overcome health issues, mend family relationships, and navigate life’s challenges with inner peace.

Martin Lindell from Sweden shared his cultivation experience: “Cultivation has made me stronger and wiser. I’ve learned to not be distracted by the outside world and I’m able to remain peaceful.” He began practicing Falun Dafa more than 25 years ago.

Candlelight vigils

As part of the anniversary commemorations, practitioners held candlelight vigils in Gothenburg’s Gustaf Adolfs Torg and Götaplatsen on Sept. 19 and 20. Rows of candles glowed in the evening darkness, honoring those in China who have lost their lives in the Chinese Communist Party’s 26-year campaign against Falun Dafa.

Despite the rain, the solemn gatherings drew support from local residents and international visitors. “The persecution is, of course, terrifying, and no one should be subjected to such treatment,” said Viktor Järnekull, a Gothenburg resident who stopped to observe. “Especially when I heard about organ harvesting, I felt extremely uneasy. I long to see this atrocity come to an end.”

For Swedish practitioners, the anniversary events were both a celebration and a remembrance—marking how far the practice has come in Europe while standing in solidarity with those still suffering in China.