In Samoa, coconut trees are the tree of life. It is a renewable commodity that has historically been very important to the survival of many islands in the Pacific Ocean. The coconut palm and the coconut are used to make fabrics, ropes, tools, bowls and much more. Passing on knowledge about traditional materials and crafts is important to be able to change from plastic and other non-renewable raw materials. Now the museum is accepting a donation of a newly manufactured piece of clothing braided from coconut fiber.
The Samoan Islands are located in the Pacific Ocean, south of the Equator, and far from Sweden. But that has not stopped Swedish travelers and researchers from visiting the archipelago over the years. Among the objects from Samoa in the museum's collections are a coconut palm comb and seashell necklace, both of which can be seen in The Storage exhibition.
In addition to these items, today you will have the opportunity to take part in more culture from the archipelago:
At 11.30 – 12.00
Kava ceremonies are an important custom in Samoan culture, and take place at important events such as village meetings, welcoming guests or funerals. During the ceremony, kava made from the kava plant is drunk.
There is a strict order to the ceremony. In some villages, a woman traditionally prepares kava by mixing it with water in a large wooden bowl called a tanoa. The mixture is then strained to drink and the drink is served in a kava cup made from coconut shells. The person who serves is called "tautu 'ava" plays an important role in the ceremony. During the ceremony, the chief speaks on behalf of the family and the village.
Guests are often welcomed with a lively dance performance at the end of the ceremony showcasing Samoan culture and hospitality.
Join the ceremony, maybe you'll get to taste kava.
At 12.00 - 1.15 p.m
Afa or sinnet is an important material in the cultures of Oceania with significance in traditional Samoan society. Traditionally, only men were involved in 'Afa-making, but nowadays it is also done by women.
During the lecture, Dr. Bernadette Samau explains how 'Afa has transformed from a building and decorative craft material to being used to design contemporary fashion clothing. We learn how the art of design has been used to preserve both the tangible and intangible cultural heritage of Samoa in connection with the Samoan 'Afan'. Attendees will also see a special garment handwoven by Juliana Tuiletufuga, a member of the Sinnet Project in Samoa.
Dr. Bernadette Samau is the daughter of the Paramount High Chief, Faumuina Le Tupufia of Lepea, Samoa and an advocate for preserving and promoting Samoan culture and heritage. She is currently a Senior Lecturer in Management and Marketing, as well as Head of the Department of Marketing and Management at the National University of Samoa. Bernadette holds a PhD in Marketing Management from the University of Otago and multiple degrees in Cultural Tourism, Business Administration and Management. She has led various capacity building trainings for both public and private organizations in Samoa.
At 13.30 - 15.00
Discover the magic of coconut milk in this fun workshop, while experiencing a taste of Samoan tradition! We crack fresh coconuts, a fruit of great importance in Samoan culture.
The coconut is used for everything from food and drink to building materials and medicine. And is considered Samoa's tree of life. In this workshop, we turn these versatile nuts into a homemade milk and guide you through each step from selecting the perfect nut to separating the rich, flavorful liquid.
Enjoy a taste of Samoa and discover how you can use some of the coconut in your home, while learning how a single fruit plays an important role in Samoan culture.
At 16.00 - 16.30
Taualuga, which means "Final Dance or Finale" in Samoan, is the great highlight of the Samoan celebration. It is also known as the dance of life, a dance of emotions. A slow, graceful dance performed by the chief's daughter (taupou) or son (manaia). Imagine gentle rocking movements and expressive hand gestures that tell stories of pride, beauty and heritage. This sacred dance marks the climax of a joyful event and leaves a lasting impression on all present.
The annual pass costs SEK 250 and is valid for 365 days from the date of purchase. The annual pass is valid for the Museum of Ethnography and the Museum of Mediterranean and Near Eastern Antiquities in Stockholm and the Museum of World Culture in Gothenburg
Among other things, the annual pass gives you discounted prices on several program activities and special exhibitions.
The National Museums of World Culture also include the Museum of Far Eastern Antiquities, which is currently closed for renovation and will reopen in 2026.