Midsummer: Unveiling the Enchanting Secrets Of The Swedish Midsummer Eve

Midsummer in Sweden 1913. Notice the Maypole in the background. (Source: Wikimedia Commons).

Part 1: A Prelude to Magic and Celebration

Introduction When the warm sun casts its golden glow over the picturesque landscape of Sweden, something truly enchanting happens. The arrival of Midsummer Eve brings with it a captivating celebration that captures the hearts of locals and visitors alike. From dancing around maypoles to indulging in mouthwatering delicacies, Swedish Midsummer is a kaleidoscope of traditions, folklore, and merriment. Join us on a journey as we delve into the intriguing secrets of this magical summer celebration!

A Date with Nature

Midsummer in Sweden is a time when the natural world awakens, and the country comes alive with vibrant colors. Falling on the weekend closest to the summer solstice, around June 21st, the celebration marks the longest day of the year. As the sun barely sets, the land basks in an ethereal glow that seems to hold the promise of endless possibilities.

Play poster for A Midsummer Night's Dream at the Savoy Theatre. 1914. (Source: Wikimedia Commons).

Folklore and Legends

Behind every great tradition lies a fascinating tale, and Swedish Midsummer is no exception. According to ancient folklore, the night before Midsummer's Day is a time when supernatural beings and magical creatures roam the Earth. Legend has it that if you pick seven different kinds of flowers and place them under your pillow, you'll dream of your future spouse. It's a time when legends come to life and the line between reality and fantasy blurs.

A Midsummer Night's Dream (from the play by William Shakespeare) Robert Fowler (1853–1926). (Source: Wikimedia Commons).

Dancing Around the Maypole

One cannot speak of Swedish Midsummer without mentioning the iconic maypole, or "midsommarstång" as it's known in Sweden. Erected in the center of every Midsummer celebration, the maypole stands tall, bedecked with vibrant floral garlands and ribbons. As the traditional music begins to play, people of all ages join hands and form a joyous circle around the maypole. With laughter and glee, they dance, twirling and skipping in a ritual that dates back centuries.

Dancing at the Maypole, Falköping, Sweden. 1930s. (Source: Picryl).

Culinary Delights

No celebration is complete without a feast, and Swedish Midsummer is a gastronomic extravaganza. The traditional Midsummer menu features a delectable array of seasonal delights, with new potatoes, pickled herring, sour cream, and chives taking center stage. Strawberries, freshly plucked from local fields, adorn creamy cakes and desserts, adding a sweet touch to the festivities. With every bite, you can taste the flavors of tradition and history.

Dressing the Part

Midsummer is an occasion to dress up in traditional Swedish folk costumes or donning white clothing, embracing the essence of purity and nature. Women wear flower wreaths in their hair, and men sport dapper straw hats, adding to the picturesque charm of the celebration. The sea of white and colorful folk dresses creates a captivating visual spectacle, making it a photographer's dream come true.

"The Midsummer Dance". Young women and girls in traditional costumes. Siljansborg in Rättvik, Dalarna, Sweden. 26 June 1931. (Source: Picryl).

Part 2: Flower Crowns, Ancient Rituals, and the Allure of the Midnight Sun

Flower Crowns: A Symbol of Beauty and Fertility

In the land where nature reigns supreme, it's no surprise that flowers play a significant role in the Midsummer festivities. One of the most cherished traditions is the creation and wearing of flower crowns.

Two girls picking flowers, Midsommar Örebro, Sweden 24 June 1966. (Source: Picryl).

As the meadows burst into bloom, people gather to weave delicate wreaths using an array of wildflowers, including daisies, dandelions, and buttercups. Adorned with these floral crowns, both young and old embrace the spirit of nature, symbolizing beauty, purity, and fertility. The sight of a sea of flower-adorned heads is a true testament to the vibrant spirit of Midsummer.

A girl with a midsummer flower wreath for the Maypole. Midsommar Örebro, Sweden 24 June 1966. (Source: Picryl).

Ancient Rituals: The Magic Lives On

Swedish Midsummer is deeply rooted in ancient rituals and beliefs that have been passed down through generations. One such ritual is the act of raising and decorating the maypole. With great care and precision, the pole is adorned with fresh greenery, flowers, and ribbons, transforming it into a majestic centerpiece. The act of raising the maypole represents the ascent of life-giving forces, bringing forth abundance and prosperity.

A woman in shorts and sunglasses sits and ties a wreath to the midsummer pole, Växjö, Sweden. 23 June 1946. (Source: Wikimedia Commons).

Another age-old tradition is the lighting of bonfires. As the sun slowly dips towards the horizon but never truly sets, the sky takes on a mesmerizing golden hue. Amidst this otherworldly glow, bonfires are ignited, casting a warm and flickering light over the revelers. The flames are believed to ward off evil spirits and bring good fortune in the year to come. Dancing and merriment ensue as people gather around the fires, their laughter and joy echoing into the night.

Midsummer (Sankt Hans) at the amusement park Bakken north of Copenhagen, Denmark. 2013. (Source: Wikimedia Commons).

The Allure of the Midnight Sun

One of the most enchanting aspects of Swedish Midsummer is the phenomenon known as the midnight sun. As the celebration takes place during the summer solstice, the sun hovers above the horizon for nearly 24 hours, bathing the land in an ethereal glow. This perpetual daylight adds an element of magic to the festivities, as people revel in the surreal experience of a sunlit night. It's a time when inhibitions fade away, and the lines between day and night blur, allowing for endless hours of jubilation.

Sunset on Midsummer night in Sweden. (Source: Pixabay).

Games and Traditions: Maypoles and More

Swedish Midsummer is not just about dancing and feasting; it's a time for games and laughter too. Alongside the maypole dances, traditional games are played, bringing out the competitive spirit in both young and old. One popular game is the "Egg Race," where participants balance a spoon with an egg on it and race to the finish line without dropping it. It's a test of balance, focus, and a touch of luck.

Another beloved tradition is the "Tug of War". Teams gather, gripping the rope with all their might, hoping to outmuscle their opponents and claim victory. The atmosphere is filled with cheers, shouts, and a contagious energy that unites everyone in friendly competition.

Men in folk costumes and other men in suits participate in a tug-of-war during a midsummer celebration. Midsummer, Örebro, Sweden. 26 juni 1967. (Source: Picryl). Part 3: Embracing Nature's Magic - Folklore, Midsommarstång, and Midsummer's Eve

Folklore and Superstitions: Unveiling the Mysteries

Swedish Midsummer is steeped in folklore and superstitions that add a layer of mystique to the celebration. According to legends, Midsummer's Eve is a time when supernatural beings such as fairies, trolls, and elves roam the Earth. It is believed that magical powers are at their peak during this enchanted night, and some say that you might even catch a glimpse of these mystical creatures if you are fortunate enough.

"Ängsälvor", Swedish "Meadow Elves" by Nils Blommér. Painting from 1850. Blommér were one among the Swedish artists who in the mid-1800's wanted to create a national Swedish art. He incorporated themes from Norse mythology and folklore. (Source: Wikimedia Commons).

To ward off mischievous spirits, it is customary to decorate homes and the maypole with birch branches. Birch is believed to have protective qualities and is thought to keep evil spirits at bay. Additionally, some traditionalists still light bonfires at the crossroads to scare away malevolent forces and bring good luck to the community.

Midsommarstång: Symbolism and Tradition

At the heart of every Swedish Midsummer celebration stands the iconic Midsommarstång, or midsummer pole. The Midsommarstång is a tall wooden pole adorned with colorful ribbons, flowers, and greenery. Erected with great care and precision, it serves as the centerpiece for dances, games, and joyous festivities.

People raising the maypole at Midsummer celebrations in Siljansborg in Rättvik, Dalarna. 23 June 1931. (Source: Wikimedia Commons).

The symbolism behind the Midsommarstång is believed to date back to ancient pagan rituals. Some theories suggest that it represents a fertility symbol, while others link it to the phallic symbolism of ancient fertility rites. Regardless of its origin, the Midsommarstång embodies the spirit of abundance, renewal, and the vibrant energy of summer. As people gather around the pole, hand in hand, they become part of a living tapestry that connects past and present, tradition, and joyous celebration.

Midsummer celebration. Rydbergsdal, Kopparberg, Sweden. 1960. (Source: Örebro läns museum).

Midsummer's Eve: A Night of Magic and Romance

Midsummer's Eve holds a special place in Swedish hearts as a night of magic, romance, and possibilities. It is a time when young people venture into the woods in search of seven different flowers, which they carefully pick and place under their pillows. Legend has it that by doing so, they will dream of their future spouse. The anticipation and excitement of this tradition create an air of enchantment and whispers of destiny.

Couples and friends gather around beautifully set tables adorned with white tablecloths, flowers, and candlelight. Laughter and conversation fill the air as they indulge in traditional delicacies, share stories, and create lasting memories. As the sun lingers on the horizon, the atmosphere becomes infused with a dreamlike quality, heightening the sense of connection with nature and each other.

The Feast of Senses: Traditional Midsummer Delicacies

No exploration of Swedish Midsummer would be complete without savoring the delectable flavors of the feast. The Midsummer table is a vibrant spread of culinary delights, showcasing the bounty of the season. Traditional dishes include pickled herring served in various flavorful marinades, such as mustard, dill, or onion. Crisp and golden new potatoes, often accompanied by melted butter and fresh dill. Gravlax, a cured salmon dish infused with herbs and spices, tantalizes the taste buds with its delicate flavors.

Midsummer dinner. Hässleholm, Sweden. 25 June 1999. (Source: Wikimedia Commons).

Creamy Västerbotten cheese pie, a Swedish specialty, adds a rich and savory element to the table. Crispbread, cheese, and an assortment of salads, including cucumber and tomato salad, provide a refreshing balance to the meal.

Traditional Swedish crispbread. "Åkes Hönöknäcke Råg", is based on a unique recipe from Åkes family on Hönö, who started the bakery in 1934. This crispbread is a specialty from Bohuslän with the flavor of anis, fennel, and cumin. (Photo courtesy of Peter Deleuran and Åkes Äkta Hönökakor).

No Swedish Midsummer celebration would be complete without the sweetness of strawberries. Plump and juicy, these ruby gems are traditionally served with a dollop of whipped cream, becoming a quintessential symbol of the season. The burst of flavor from each bite is a celebration of nature's bounty and the joy of summer.

Swedish Midsummer strawberry pie. (Source: Pixabay).

Music, Dance, and Merriment

Swedish Midsummer is a time for music, dance, and unbridled merriment. Folk musicians gather with their fiddles, accordions, and nyckelharpas, filling the air with lively melodies. The traditional songs, known as "snapsvisor", are often sung during the feast, accompanied by the clinking of glasses and joyful toasts.

Five men raise their schnapps glasses. Sweden, 1930s. (Source: Wikimedia Commons).

Our exploration into the enchanting secrets of Swedish Midsummer has taken us on a journey through folklore, traditions, and the magical allure of nature. From the captivating Midsommarstång to the mystical Midsummer's Eve, this celebration embraces the rich tapestry of Swedish culture. As we immerse ourselves in the music, dance, and feasting, we become part of a timeless tradition that connects us to the rhythms of nature and the shared experiences of generations past.