New Sweden, Maine

Swedish heritage amid northern potato fields

Overview

Settled in 1870 by Swedish arrivals, New Sweden keeps its heritage alive with bilingual street signs, midsommar dances, and Lutheran churches. Potato and tree farms stretch toward Caribou and Connor, while winter brings well-groomed snowmobile and ski trails along the old rail corridor.

Key Facts

Population 577

Region Aroostook

County Aroostook

Founded 1870

Nearest City Caribou (15 minutes)

Town Office Visit official website

What New Sweden Is Known For

New Sweden Local Highlights

Swedish roots

Annual midsommar pole raising, Swedish food, and family names still shape local culture.

Farm country

Potatoes, canola, and spruce plantations dot the open landscape.

Trail connections

The Aroostook Valley Trail links sleds and ATVs to Caribou and Stockholm.

Things to Do

Visit the Historical Society

Tour restored buildings and exhibits on the 1870 Swedish Colony.

Attend midsommar

Join the June celebration with folk costumes, music, and community dinners.

Ride the Valley Trail

Explore miles of flat rail trail by bike in summer or sled in winter.

Living in New Sweden

A small, close-knit farming town with services in Caribou and Presque Isle. Expect open skies, quiet roads, and strong Swedish traditions.

Weather & Seasons

summer

Mild, 60-78 F

winter

Cold and snowy, -5 to 20 F

spring

Cool, 35-55 F with lingering snow

fall

Crisp, 40-60 F and early frosts

How to Get There

Follow Route 161 north from Caribou; Presque Isle is about 25 minutes south via Route 163 and US 1.

Satellite preview shows the approximate town outline to help you get oriented before you arrive.

Satellite preview

New Sweden outline

Outdoor Recreation

ATV Riding

Late Spring - Late Fall

Hiking

Year-round (Best: May - Oct)

Skiing & Snowboarding

Winter (December - April)

Snowmobiling in Maine: 14,000 Miles of Trails & Complete Guide

Winter (December - April)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is New Sweden known for?

New Sweden is known for its Swedish heritage dating to 1870 when Swedish immigrants founded the community. The town celebrates midsommar with maypole dances, maintains bilingual street signs, and features the New Sweden Historical Society preserving colony history.

How far is New Sweden from Caribou?

New Sweden is about 15 minutes north of Caribou via Route 161. It's a small farming community with services available in Caribou and Presque Isle (about 25 minutes south).

What is the midsommar celebration?

Midsommar is a traditional Swedish summer solstice celebration held in June. New Sweden's festivities include raising the maypole, folk costumes, traditional Swedish music, and community dinners, keeping the town's Swedish heritage alive.