Press release —
The Dala horse from Dalarna, Sweden, gains EU protection
The traditional Dala horse from Dalarna, Sweden, has become the first Swedish product to receive protected geographical indication status under the EU’s new system for craft and industrial products. One of Sweden’s most beloved symbols, it now has protection linking its name to its geographical origin and specific production requirements. As with Champagne, where it comes from matters.
The small wooden horse, with its distinctive floral decorations, is one of Sweden’s most recognisable symbols. It can be found in homes around the world, but its roots and craftsmanship belong firmly in Dalarna. Here, the skills of carving, painting and decorating Dala horses have been passed down through generations.
Now, this tradition has gained stronger protection. The EU decision means that the name Dala horse can no longer be freely used for products that do not meet the requirements for geographical origin and production. The protection applies throughout the EU, including online sales.
The application was submitted jointly by two renowned Dala horse manufacturers, Grannas A. Olsson Hemslöjd and Nils Olsson Dalahästar, both based in the village of Nusnäs near Mora. However, the protection is not exclusive to these companies. Any producer meeting the requirements may use the protected designation.
In Nusnäs, visitors can watch skilled artisans carve, paint and decorate Dala horses, following a craft tradition passed down through centuries. Each horse has its own character, and visitors can also try painting one themselves to take home. It is a chance to experience the craftsmanship behind one of Sweden’s best-known souvenirs.
For Dalarna, the protection recognises a living cultural heritage and the people who keep it alive, as well as supporting the local manufacturers who carry the tradition forward.
A Dala horse is not just any wooden horse. It is a little piece of Dalarna.
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Visit Dalarna is the regional destination management organization responsible for marketing and promoting the Dalarna region nationally and internationally. We work with travel trade, communications and PR, and have in‑depth knowledge of the region’s accommodation, activities and attractions. Visit Dalarna collaborates closely with tourism businesses across the region.
Dalarna, located in central Sweden, is often described as “Sweden in miniature.” Its landscape ranges from mountains, waterfalls and winding rivers to deep forests, woodland lakes and open rolling farmland. It’s an ideal destination for hiking, skiing, cycling, skating, canoeing and a wide variety of outdoor adventures. Much of the popular imagery associated with Sweden — culturally and geographically — originates from Dalarna: the classic red-painted cottages, brightly coloured folk costumes, joyful Midsummer celebrations, and of course the iconic Dala horse.
All very Swedish. All very Dalarna.
