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MIDSUMMER Midsummer is celebrated in our countries between June 18 and 25, each country on slightly different dates. It is the most important traditional festivity of the summer in Finland, Sweden, Estonia and Latvia. Each country has its own authentic traditions related to sun and fertility while what is common to all is special festive foods, picking wildflowers and making wreaths, and gathering to celebrate around a fire – a bonfire or maypole.
Finland Midsummer in Finland is celebrated on a different date depending on the year, around 18th to 25th of June. Finns usually go to their summer cottages to celebrate the Midsummer which can include bonfires, summer concerts and other activities.
Estonia
Sweden In Sweden, Midsummer is one of the most celebrated holidays and Midsummer Eve is always on a Friday between 19 and 25 June and it is usually celebrated in the countryside where Swedes gather with friends and family. They will pick flowers for making wreaths for the maypole which is raised in an open spot where children and adults perform traditional ring dances. A flower crown in the hair and singing songs while drinking schnapps is another traditional activity. Typical food for Midsummer is pickled herring served with new potatoes, chives, and sour cream. Legend says that if you place seven types of flowers under your pillow in midsummer, you will dream about your future beloved one.
Midsummer or St. John’s Day, Jaanipäev as it is known in Estonia, is one of the oldest local celebrations. Late June is the perfect time for a holiday in the blooming nature where days extend into nights, with barely any darkness in sight.
SUMMER SOLSTICE Due to its northern location, Estonia experiences the summertime ‘White Nights’ phenomena, when the sun sets late and the night is dusk at most. Midsummer coincides closely with the longest day of the year in the northern hemisphere – the summer solstice. Every year the solstice occurs on June 20nd or 21st, Midsummer festivities beginning on the eve of June 23rd conclude on June 24th, while Estonians barely sleep during this bright period, sitting outside by the glow of bonfires and twilight. Originating in ancient folk traditions, St. John’s Day marks the beginning of the season
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