Midsummer in Northern Europe: Why the Longest Day Matters

In the far north of Europe, summer days stretch long into the night, so the summer solstice is a major event. Midsummer is celebrated in Sweden, Finland, Norway, Estonia and elsewhere with customs that blend older seasonal traditions and later religious ones.

What people do

In Sweden, families gather around a flower-decked pole, dance and eat pickled herring, new potatoes and strawberries. In Finland, bonfires by lakes are common. In Estonia, the eve of the holiday brings bonfires and singing.

Flowers and wreaths

Wearing wreaths made of wild flowers is widespread. A well-known folk custom says that picking seven flowers and placing them under the pillow can bring dreams of a future partner.

Visiting

Many shops close, and cities empty as people head to the countryside. Visitors should plan transport and food in advance.