Midsommer Eve

Midsommer Eve (FIN / SWE) History

Midsommer Eve, also known as Midsummer's Eve or St. John's Eve, marks summer solstice, the point at which we experience the longest day of the year, and heralds the beginning of the harvest season. With its origins in pre-Christian festivities, Midsommer Eve is a significant event in many European countries, characterized by various customs, rituals, and traditions aimed at commemorating life, fertility, and the power of nature.

The history of Midsommer Eve dates back to ancient times when it was observed by pagans as a festival of light and fire, symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness. As Christianity spread across Europe, the celebration was adapted to commemorate the birth of Saint John the Baptist, but many of the original customs and traditions persisted. For people in the European Union, Midsommer Eve retains its importance as a cultural event that highlights the shared heritage of countries in the region. The observance not only fosters a sense of unity among European nations but also provides an insight into the rich and diverse cultural landscape of the continent.

In the European Union, Midsommer Eve is marked by a variety of festivities that differ from one country to another. The celebration typically includes traditional music, dancing, and feasting, as well as bonfires and other fire-related rituals. Flower wreaths are often worn on this occasion, symbolizing the exuberant beauty of nature in full bloom. In some cultures, people also partake in fortune-telling activities and superstitions associated with the mystical aspects of Midsummer's Eve. Midsommer Eve usually takes place on the eve of the Summer Solstice, which falls between June 20th and 24th.

Top facts about Midsommer Eve

• Certain trees hold significance. Branches form birch trees are placed around the entrance to buildings to welcome visitors.
• Bonfires are very popular, the ideal location is by a lake or the sea as the holiday is strongly related to the natural rhythms of life.
• Midsummer is the longest day in Finland. In Helsinki the sun sets at 10:50pm on Midsummer’s Eve and rises at 3:56am on Midsummer’s Day.
• Polar days are when nights are short and light, as Finland extends into the Arctic Circle there are parts that do not have night for several days.
• On The Summer Solstice ... Whatever is dreamed on this night, will come to pass. - William Shakespeare

In the News and Trending for Midsommer Eve

Midsommer Eve Top Events and Things to Do

• Visit the countryside to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights and escape the busy city life.
• Make flower crowns using fresh flowers and wear them during the celebrations. This is a traditional symbol of Midsummer and represents the blooming of nature.
• Prepare some dishes for the feast tomorrow. Salted fish, as well as fresh fish like salmon, rainbow trout and Baltic herring are abundant during the summer. All kinds of cooking methods are used, usually served with potatoes and dill.
• Listen to heavy metal. Finland produces more heavy metal than most countries of its size. Bands will be playing throughout Midsummer. Gigs are often held on Midsummer Eve. Well-known bands such as HIM, Nightwish or Amoprhis might be playing.
• Light a bonfire. Fires were burnt in the old times to banish evil spirits and bad fortune.