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St. John's Day, also known as Jonsok or Midsummer, is celebrated on June 24th in Norway and marks the birth of St. John the Baptist. It falls during the period of the midnight sun, close to the summer solstice, which is a time of light and warmth.
The celebration predates Christianity, originally being a pagan festival linked to the summer solstice. After Christianization, it was associated with St. John the Baptist's birth. Traditional observances have blended Christian beliefs with older customs.
People would historically light bonfires to protect against evil spirits which were thought to be freely roaming when the sun was turning southward again. The fires would also celebrate the power of the sun over darkness as St. John's Day comes during one of the longest days of the year.
Today in Norway, St. John's Day is still celebrated with bonfires and gatherings at beaches and lakesides. Friends and family come together for barbecues, outdoor activities, and communal singing around bonfires into the late hours due to extended daylight.
In coastal areas, there are often boat parades where boats are decorated and sail together in a regatta-like fashion. This reflects Norway’s strong connection to maritime traditions.
Though it is not an official public holiday in Norway anymore, St. John's Day remains a popular occasion for people to enjoy nature and herald in the summer season with various local festivities across the country.
