Everything you need to know about Midsummer

Midsummer is the celebration of the summer solstice and it’s typically spent with friends and family at a summer cottage away from the city. And whether you want to party or relax, there are many ways to get in on the fun.

Finland is known for its summertime nightless nights and Midsummer’s is the most nightless of them all. Viewed as the official start of warm weather, Midsummer Eve at the end of June is when many Finns kick off their summer holidays. The Midnight Sun plays a major role in the festivities in the northern parts of Finland, but it doesn’t actually get dark in the south, either.

So, what do Finns do on Midsummer? Historically, Midsummer was a popular time for weddings, and many people cast fertility or love spells. These days, lighting bonfires and bathing in saunas are two popular ways to celebrate. Barbequing, fishing and boating are also standard pastimes for those who spend midsummer at a country cottage.

In the olden days, bonfires (or “kokko”) were lit during Midsummer to keep evil spirits away and ensure a good harvest. But making noise and getting tipsy has been part of Finland’s Midsummer celebrations through the ages. And not all in the name of fun – in the past, people believed loud behaviour would bring luck and drive away evil spirits. If you're visiting Finland during Midsummer, ask locals if there is a juhannuskokko being lit somewhere near you. It typically takes place on a lake or sea shore if there is no wildfire warning in place that day.

People in cities have revived the open-air Midsummer dance traditions. In Helsinki, they mostly take place away from the city centre, such as on Seurasaari Island. If you’re not into crowds, another reason to spend Midsummer in the city is the eerie urban atmosphere: the streets are virtually empty during the holiday.

Midnight Sun mythology is a huge part of Finnish folklore. Most beliefs centre on the longest day of the year, Midsummer (or “Juhannus”), at the end of June. One popular story, for example, involves a young maiden who puts seven flowers under her pillow on Midsummer night, resulting in her future fiancée appearing in her dreams. As previously mentioned, this time of year was once popular for casting love and fertility spells.

Midsummer party traditions run deep, and countless events and festivals are held all over Finland. Since it’s hard to tell when the night’s over, parties often last well into the wee hours, and many cap them off with a nighttime swim with friends.