What is the most popular holiday in Finland?
Finland’s most popular holiday is Midsummer, also known as the midsummer festival. Midsummer is celebrated on the Saturday between June 20 and 26, and it is one of the most awaited and loved celebrations of the year in Finland. Midsummer is full of traditions, celebrations and the beauty of nature, and it marks the culmination of summer.
History and Traditions of Midsummer
Midsummer’s roots go far into the past, and it was originally a pagan celebration connected to the summer solstice and the worship of the sun. With the arrival of Christianity, Midsummer also acquired Christian meanings, and it was named after Johannes the Baptist. Today Midsummer is a mix of old pagan and Christian traditions.
Midsummer customs
Midsummer is celebrated in many different ways, with several traditional elements. Here are some key ways in which Finns celebrate Midsummer:
- Burning bonfires: Midsummer bonfires are one of the most famous traditions of Midsummer. Large bonfires are lit on the beaches and are believed to have magical powers that ward off evil spirits and bring good luck.
- Sauna: Sauna is an essential part of the Finnish Midsummer. Many Finns spend Midsummer’s Eve taking saunas and swimming in lakes or the sea.
- Midsummer dances: Midsummer dances are organized in many places, where people gather to dance and enjoy music.
- Midsummer magic: Many magics and beliefs are associated with Midsummer. For example, collecting seven different types of flowers and putting them under the pillow is believed to bring the future spouse into view in a dream.
Meaning of Midsummer in Modern Finland
Midsummer is an important holiday for Finns, which symbolizes the beginning of summer and the beauty of nature. It’s also a time when families and friends get together to hang out at the cabins, enjoy good food and drink, and relax. For many Finns, Midsummer is the beginning of the holiday season, and it offers an opportunity to break away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and enjoy Finland’s beautiful summer.
Sources
You can read more information about Midsummer from the following sources:
