June 24

Midsummer

Midsummer is the perfect time to soak up the sun, dance around a maypole, and enjoy delicious Scandinavian treats! Join in on the fun this year.

Yearly Date
June 24
Type
Day
Category
Cultural

Introduction

Get ready to celebrate the longest day of the year on June 24 with Midsummer! This ancient festival has been celebrated for centuries, marking the arrival of summer and the peak of the growing season. It's a time for fun, feasting, and festivities, with traditions varying from country to country. From bonfires and flower crowns to delicious seasonal dishes, there are many ways to embrace this magical day. So gather your loved ones and join in on the Midsummer celebrations – it's sure to be a joyous and memorable occasion!

Midsummer Timeline

2900 BC
Midsummer's Ancient Beginnings
Archaeological evidence, notably the Stonehenge in England, indicates the observance of midsummer rituals by ancient civilisations, highlighting their understanding of the solar cycle.
1300s
Midsummer Celebrated in Sweden
Sweden's historical documents show that Midsummer has been celebrated in the country since the 14th Century, marking the start of summer holidays.
1800s
Popularization of Midsummer Maypole
The iconic Midsummer Maypole tradition grew popular during the 19th Century in many cultures, a symbol celebrating fertility and life during this summer festival.
1952
Swedish Midsummer National Holiday
Sweden declared Midsummer's Eve as a national holiday in 1952, solidifying its importance in the country's cultural celebrations.
1970s
Global Spread of Midsummer Festivities
Supported by the growth of multiculturalism, Midsummer festivities began to be celebrated more widely around the world during the 1970s.
2016
UNESCO Heritage Listing
The tradition of the Swedish Midsummer was listed on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List in 2016, recognizing its cultural significance on a global stage.

How to Celebrate Midsummer

1

Host a bonfire

Gather friends and family and celebrate Midsummer with a traditional bonfire. Roast marshmallows, tell stories, and enjoy the warm summer night together.

2

Decorate with flowers

Midsummer is all about celebrating nature, so decorate your home or outdoor space with beautiful flowers. You can even make flower crowns to wear for the day.

3

Have a traditional Swedish feast

In Sweden, Midsummer is celebrated with a big feast of traditional dishes such as pickled herring, boiled potatoes, and meatballs. Try making these dishes at home or visit a Swedish restaurant to experience the flavors of the holiday.

4

Dance around a maypole

A traditional Midsummer celebration involves dancing around a maypole. You can make your own maypole with ribbons and flowers and have a dance party with friends and family.

5

Explore nature

Midsummer is all about celebrating the beauty of nature. Take a hike, go for a bike ride, or have a picnic in a park to fully appreciate the natural world around you.

Why We Love Midsummer

A

It brings people together

Midsummer is a time for friends and family to gather and celebrate the longest day of the year. Communities come together for festivals, bonfires and traditional dances. It's a beautiful way to connect with loved ones and your community.

B

It's a celebration of nature

Midsummer is rooted in nature and celebrates the bounty of the earth. It's a time to appreciate and honor the beauty and importance of our natural surroundings. From flower crowns to traditional herbal remedies, Midsummer brings us closer to mother nature.

C

There are endless traditions and activities

From dancing around maypoles to picking wildflowers, from making wreaths to hopping over bonfires, there are so many fun and unique traditions associated with Midsummer. No matter where you are in the world, you're sure to find something special to do on this day.

Midsummer Dates

Year
Date
Day
2023
Jun 23
Friday
2024
Jun 23
Sunday
2025
Jun 23
Monday
2026
Jun 23
Tuesday
2027
Jun 23
Wednesday