Europe is a continent with a rich history and diverse cultures. One of the most unique and colorful traditions observed in many European countries is the celebration of Midsummer. This tradition takes place on or around the summer solstice, which falls on the week of June 21st this year. Each country celebrates Midsummer in its own way, but all celebrations share some common elements. In this blog post, we will explore the history and customs of Midsummer celebrations in several European countries!
Germany
In Germany, Midsummer is known as Sommernacht, or "Summer Night." One of the most popular traditions observed on Sommernacht is the lighting of large bonfires. In some areas, locals will gather branches and leaves to build a large bonfire, while in other areas people will purchase fireworks to celebrate. Germans also celebrate by drinking and dancing around the bonfire!
Another popular tradition in Germany is the picking of wildflowers. People will go out into the countryside to pick flowers like lavender, roses, and poppies. They will then put these flowers in bouquets or arrangements to bring inside their homes. Some people also make wreaths out of the flowers to wear on their heads.
Sweden
In Sweden, Midsummer is known as Sommarblot, or "Summer Sacrifice." One of the most important aspects of this celebration is the gathering of food and drink. Swedes will gather berries, fruits, and vegetables from the forest and bring them back to their homes to prepare for a large feast.
Another important tradition during Sommarblot is the midsummer pole. This is a tall wooden pole that is erected in the middle of the village. People will hang flowers, ribbons, and other decorations on the pole, and then dance around it in a circle.
Denmark
In Denmark, Midsummer is known as Sankthansaften, or "St. John's Eve." This celebration takes place on June 23rd, the day before St. John's Day. One of the most popular traditions during Sankthansaften is the burning of bonfires. People will gather together to build large bonfires, and then they will sing and dance around them.
Another popular tradition during Sankthansaften is the drinking of mead. Mead is a type of alcoholic drink that is made from honey, water, and yeast. People will often drink mead out of horns or cups made out of birch bark.
Spain
In Spain, Midsummer is known as San Juan de la Cruz. This celebration takes place on June 24th, the day after St. John's Day. One of the most popular traditions during San Juan de la Cruz is the lighting of bonfires. People will gather together to build large bonfires, and then they will sing and dance around them.
Another popular tradition during San Juan de la Cruz is the jumping over fires. People will jump over bonfires as many times as they can in order to bring good luck for the coming year. They will also jump over fires to cleanse themselves of any bad luck or negative energy.
Italy
In Italy, Midsummer is known as Festa della Strega. This celebration takes place on June 23rd, the day before St. John's Day. One of the most popular traditions during Festa della Strega is the making of wreaths. People will make wreaths out of flowers, herbs, and other natural materials. They will then wear these wreaths on their heads or around their necks.
Another popular tradition during Festa della Strega is the drinking of herbal teas. People will drink herbal teas that are meant to purify the body and mind. These teas are often made from ingredients like lavender, chamomile, and mint.
France
In France, Midsummer is known as Fête de la Saint-Jean. This celebration takes place on June 24th, the day after St. John's Day. One of the most popular traditions during Fête de la Saint-Jean is the lighting of bonfires. People will gather together to build large bonfires, and then they will sing and dance around them.
Another popular tradition during Fête de la Saint-Jean is the eating of special foods. Many people will eat foods that are associated with the summer, like fruits, vegetables, and ice cream. They will also drink wine and other alcoholic beverages.
United Kingdom
In the United Kingdom, Midsummer is known as Litha. This celebration takes place on June 21st, the longest day of the year. One of the most popular traditions during Litha is the gathering of flowers. People will go out into the countryside to pick flowers like daisies, roses, and lavender.
Another popular tradition during Litha is the lighting of fires. People will gather together to build large bonfires, and then they will jump over them as a way of cleansing themselves. They will also jump over fires to bring good luck for the coming year.
Finland
In Finland, Midsummer is known as Juhannus. This celebration takes place on June 24th, the day after St. John's Day. One of the most popular traditions during Juhannus is the lighting of bonfires. People will gather together to build large bonfires, and then they will jump over them as a way of cleansing themselves.
Another popular tradition during Juhannus is the drinking of mead. Mead is a type of alcoholic drink that is made from honey, water, and yeast. People will often drink mead out of horns or cups made out of birch bark.
Midsummer's Day is a time to rejoice and enjoy whatever way you like. Whatever your preference for celebrating, we wish you a happy Midsummer's Day!
