Midsommardagen in Sweden

In Sweden, Midsummer Day is celebrated on the weekend closest to June 24th. The celebration features dancing, traditional games, and a variety of delicious food.

Nature is integral to Midsommar traditions. Birch is used to decorate homes, churches, outdoor venues where festivities take place, and barns.

Flowers are very important for the festival, including the midsommarkrans (midsummer crown). Everyone wears the floral crowns – including boys and men.

The midsummer pole is decorated with greenery and flowered garlands, which represent the renewal of life. The higher the pole, the more skill it takes to raise it. The tallest poles are raised using traditional forked sticks.

Once the pole is raised, participants join hands and circle the pole in a long dance (langdans).

Come see Gammelgården’s version of Midsommardagen on Saturday, June 28th from 10-4. The full schedule of activities and menu are available on the museum’s website.

NOTE: Midsommardagen will be held rain or shine. If there is a thunderstorm, the program will be held indoors at Elim Lutheran Church at 20971 Olinda Trail North. Elim is within a short walking distance from Gammelgården. 

Watch the museum’s Facebook page or call the museum at 651-433-5053 for more information.