There are few celebrations that can look back on such a long tradition as those surrounding the summer solstice. In Sweden, the longest day of the year (and therefore the start of summer) has been celebrated since pre-Christian times. That's more than 2,000 years. After the birth of Christ, the date for the festivities was June 24, the birthday of John the Baptist.

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The modern world and its obligations - such as arriving at work well-rested and the increasing insignificance of St. John's Day - meant that Midsummer in Sweden is now celebrated on the weekend between June 20 and 26. In 2024, the so called Midsommar festivities will therefore take place on June 22.

Who celebrates Midsummer in Sweden?

As it's a non-denominational festival, there are hardly any people who don't celebrate Midsummer. It's often regarded as a family celebration or community celebration. In addition to private celebrations with family and friends, there are also public events in towns and villages. Because it also centers around nature, the celebrations usually take place outside in the garden, parks or public places.

The most important accessories for Midsummer in Sweden

Sofia Holmberg

Considering that it's a festive day, traditions also developed in terms of accessories and clothing. It's customary to wear light and airy clothing for the celebrations. Folkloristic elements are often incorporated into the outfit. For example, embroidery, traditional patterns or handmade accessories. In some parts of the country, people wear traditional costumes. However, the popular flower wreaths in the hair are indispensable. They are made from fresh flowers. Shoes should be as comfortable as possible, because you'll be dancing!

Typical Midsommar traditions

Similar to a maypole, you can admire the midsummer pole (Midsommarstång) in many places. It's decorated with flowers and leaves and is a symbol of rebirth and fertility. Once it's erected, people dance folk dances such as the frog dance (Små grodorna). Traditional Swedish songs and live music are also part of the festivities.

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If you want to get the most out of the supposedly magical night you should walk barefoot in the dew on the morning after Midsummer Night - this is said to promote good health. Unmarried women go out to pick seven different flowers. They place them under their pillow to meet their future husband in a dream. Important: Don't chat while picking, otherwise the magic won't work.

Eat and drink like the Swedes

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Indulge in smoked salmon, herring, aquavit (schnapps), strawberries and young potatoes - it's customary to celebrate Midsummer with traditional dishes. These are usually quite simple and are served as a smörgåsbord, a mixture of hot and cold dishes. Crispbread, cheese, butter and meatballs (köttbullar) are also a must. Incidentally, drinking songs are an important part of Swedish customs and there are a lot of different ones. After the meal, the (adult) guests (also) compete in a few games. Croquet, sack races or the popular Kubb are just as much a part of this as creative new inventions. They are often held as a femkamp (pentathlon).

The most beautiful places for midsummer

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In Swedish Lapland you can celebrate without the sun going down. However, this high up you'll have to dance around the maypole in snowshoes. The world's largest Midsummer festival is held in Sammilsdal. Here, 20,000 to 30,000 people gather for the festivities. The Skerry Gardens around Stockholm are well worth a visit - the scenery is incomparable. The open-air museum Skansen offers wreath-making, market stalls and live music. However, Midsummer in Sweden is always an experience, no matter where and with whom you celebrate.

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