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Date:
Midsummer Eve is celebrated in Sweden on a Friday between June 19th and 25th, close to the summer solstice.
History:
The origins of Midsummer date back to pre-Christian times, with ties to ancient solstice rituals and fertility rites. The celebration has evolved over the centuries, blending pagan customs with Christian traditions.
Traditions:
Maypole (Midsommarstång): A central tradition is the raising and dancing around a maypole, which is decorated with leaves, flowers, and ribbons. The maypole is a symbol often associated with fertility rites.
Flower wreaths: Women and girls often wear wreaths made of wildflowers on their heads, a practice that harks back to pagan times.
Food: A typical Midsummer menu includes pickled herring, boiled new potatoes with fresh dill, sour cream and chives, followed by a dessert of strawberries and cream.
Drinks: Celebratory drinks often include beer and snaps (a type of Scandinavian spirit), sometimes accompanied by traditional drinking songs.
Dancing: Swedes engage in traditional folk dances around the maypole, including the famous "Små grodorna" (The Little Frogs) dance.
Games: Various outdoor games for all ages are common, such as tug-of-war or sack races.
What People Do:
Swedes usually celebrate Midsummer Eve in the countryside or in parks and gardens. It's a de facto public holiday when families gather for parties that involve eating traditional foods, drinking, singing songs related to summer and love, enjoying outdoor activities, and appreciating the extended daylight hours. It's one of Sweden's most cherished holidays due to its emphasis on joyfulness and community spirit.
