Learn the customs, food, flowers, and dances behind Sweden’s most iconic summer holiday
Midsummer (Midsommar) is perhaps Sweden’s most beloved holiday — even rivaling Christmas in its importance. It’s a magical celebration of light, nature, and togetherness, marking the summer solstice when the days are longest and the nights are at their shortest. If you want to experience Sweden like a local, celebrating Midsummer is an unforgettable way to do it. Here’s everything you need to know to celebrate Midsummer like a Swede.
1. Timing and Setting
Midsummer is celebrated on the Friday between June 19 and 25, with Midsummer’s Eve (Midsommarafton) being the main event. Traditionally, people leave the cities and gather in the countryside, on islands, or at summer cottages (sommarstugor) to be close to nature. If you’re visiting Sweden, check for local Midsummer events in villages or parks — they’re usually open to everyone.
2. The Maypole and Traditional Dances
At the heart of the celebration stands the midsommarstång, or maypole — a tall pole decorated with greenery, birch leaves, and flowers. It’s raised in an open space, often a field or park, and people of all ages join hands and dance around it.
The most famous dance? Små grodorna — “The Little Frogs” — where dancers hop and imitate frog movements while singing a playful tune. Don’t be shy; everyone joins in, and it’s all about fun, not performance!
3. Dress Code: Flowers and Folk Style
Midsummer has a relaxed, natural dress code. Women often wear light summer dresses with flower crowns (blomsterkrans) woven from wildflowers — a key symbol of the holiday. Men typically wear casual summer clothes, but in some regions, you’ll spot people in traditional folk costumes.
Want to blend in? Pick some local flowers and make your own crown — locals will often help you if you ask!
4. The Food: A Feast of Swedish Flavors
No Swedish celebration is complete without a well-stocked table. The classic Midsummer meal includes:
Pickled herring (sill) in various sauces
New potatoes with dill
Gräddfil (sour cream) and chives
Gravad lax (cured salmon)
Crispbread and aged cheeses
Fresh strawberries with cream for dessert
The meal is usually accompanied by chilled snaps (Swedish aquavit) and lots of singing — called snapsvisor — before each drink. If you join a Midsummer table, be ready to raise your glass and sing along!
5. Nature, Magic, and Romance
Midsummer has deep roots in old fertility and nature rites. According to Swedish folklore, if you pick seven (or nine) different wildflowers and place them under your pillow on Midsummer’s Eve, you’ll dream of your future spouse.
It’s also common to take a late evening walk in the soft light of the Nordic summer night — it rarely gets dark, and the atmosphere is nothing short of enchanting.
6. Tips for a True Swedish Experience
Join a local celebration: Tourist boards or village websites often list public Midsummer events.
Be ready for all weather: Midsummer is as famous for rain as it is for sunshine. Bring a rain jacket just in case.
Respect the traditions: While it’s a joyful holiday, Swedes take their Midsummer customs seriously — so participate with curiosity and respect.
Stay safe with alcohol: There’s usually plenty of drinking, but Swedes appreciate moderation and responsibility, especially when families and children are involved.
To celebrate Midsummer like a Swede is to embrace light, nature, food, and friendship. Whether you’re dancing like a frog, feasting on herring and potatoes, or wearing a flower crown under the midnight sun, Midsummer offers a beautiful glimpse into Sweden’s heart. So raise your glass, sing a snapsvisa, and welcome the summer with open arms!
