Midsommar: Sweden’s Brightest Celebration of Summer
Sweden’s most beloved holiday, Midsommar (Midsummer), celebrates the arrival of summer with joy, tradition, and togetherness. Held on the Friday closest to June 24, it’s a time when locals leave cities for the countryside—or gather in parks—to raise the maypole, dance, sing, and feast under open skies.
In 2025, Midsommarafton (Midsummer Eve) falls on Friday, 20 June, with Midsommardagen (Midsummer Day) on Saturday, 21 June. This weekend marks one of Sweden’s most cherished celebrations, filled with traditional dances, flower crowns, and festive gatherings.
Why Midsommar matters
Rooted in pre-Christian solstice rituals, Midsommar honors nature’s abundance and the light-filled nights of the Swedish summer. It has become a cherished moment of national identity, second only to Christmas in cultural importance.
Midsommar traditions
- The Maypole: Decorated with greenery and flowers, the maypole (midsommarstång) is the centerpiece. Locals dance around it in a joyful ring, often to traditional songs like “Små grodorna” (The Little Frogs).
- Floral Crowns: Worn by children and adults alike, these handmade wreaths symbolize beauty, fertility, and a deep connection to nature.
- Folk Music & Dance: Traditional tunes and dances reflect Sweden’s rural roots and bring people of all ages together.
What’s on the table?
A typical Midsommar feast includes:
- Pickled herring in various sauces
- New potatoes with dill and butter
- Gräddfil (sour cream) and chives
- Strawberries and whipped cream for dessert
All washed down with cold beer, cider, and snaps—Swedish aquavit—often accompanied by playful drinking songs called snapsvisor.
Where to celebrate Midsommar in Stockholm
From iconic city venues to rural charm, Stockholm offers many ways to join in the Midsummer fun. Celebrations are organized in parks, open-air museums, and local farms throughout the region. In fact, nearly every kommun (municipality) across Sweden hosts its own traditional festivities—so no matter where you are in Stockholm (or the country), it’s easy to find a maypole to dance around.
Midsommar at Skansen 2025
Skansen is the capital’s most iconic place to celebrate Midsommar. Since the open-air museum was founded in the late 19th century, it has hosted traditional midsummer festivities that bring Sweden’s rural heritage to life. The day includes maypole dancing, live folk music, crafts, and plenty of food options in a picturesque historical setting.
👉 View the full program: Skansen’s Midsummer Celebrations
Midsommar at Hågelbyparken 2025
Celebrate Midsummer’s Eve on Friday, June 20, 2025, at Hågelbyparken in Tumba. This free, family-friendly event offers a traditional Swedish midsummer experience amidst lush park surroundings.
Program Highlights:
– 11:30 AM: Procession into the park
– 11:45 AM: Raising of the maypole
– 12:00 PM: Traditional ring dances
– 12:45 PM: Folk dance performance
– 1:00 PM: Gammeldans (traditional dance)
– 2:30 PM: More ring dances
– 3:00 PM: Traditional costume parade
👉 View the full program: Hågelbyparken Midsummer 2025
Midsommar at Torekällberget 2025
Experience a traditional Midsummer celebration at Torekällberget Open-Air Museum in Södertälje. On Friday, June 20, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM, enjoy a day filled with folk dancing, storytelling, and family-friendly activities. Highlights include:
– 2:15 PM: Folk dance performance on the main stage.
– 2:45 PM: Traditional costume showcase.
– 3:00 PM: Maypole raising and communal dancing in Midsommarhagen.
Children can meet farm animals, enjoy a carousel ride, and listen to tales about the magic of Midsummer night. Bring a picnic or savor treats from Lindbloms Café and on-site kiosks.
🎟️ Admission: 100 SEK for adults, 40 SEK for ages 4–17, free for children under 4. No advance booking required; card and Swish payments only.
📍 Address: Källgatan 15, Södertälje. Easily accessible via commuter train to Södertälje Centrum, followed by a short walk or bus ride.
👉 Learn more: Midsommar at Torekällberget
Midsummer at Rönninge By 2025
Celebrate Midsummer in the rural charm of Rönninge By in Täby on June 20, 2025. Festivities begin at 12:30 PM and offer a full day of traditional celebrations and family-friendly activities.
Throughout the day, enjoy coffee service, pony rides, and visits to the local heritage museum and handicraft cottage. Please note that parking is limited—public transportation is recommended.
👉 Learn more: Midsummer Celebration at Rönninge By
Midsummer in the Stockholm Archipelago
For a coastal celebration, consider visiting the Stockholm archipelago. Islands like Vaxholm, Dalarö, and Värmdö host traditional Midsummer events, complete with maypole dancing, folk music, and festive meals. These locales provide a picturesque setting to experience Swedish traditions by the sea.
What to expect
- Dress Code: Many wear summer whites, floral prints, or traditional folk costumes. Flower crowns are very common.
- Atmosphere: Friendly, laid-back, and celebratory. Locals are often happy to include visitors in the festivities.
- Timing: Most celebrations start in the early afternoon and continue until late, especially in the countryside.
Practical tips for celebrating Midsummer
- Transportation: Public transport operates on a holiday schedule during Midsummer. Plan your journey in advance and check timetables.
- Attire: Dress in layers to accommodate changing weather conditions. A light jacket or sweater is advisable for the evening.
- Participation: Don’t hesitate to join in the dances and songs. Swedes are welcoming, and participation enhances the experience.
Conclusion
Midsommar captures the essence of Swedish summer: connection to nature, joyful traditions, and community spirit. For tourists, it’s one of the most magical times to visit Sweden—when the midnight sun shines bright, and everyone joins in celebration.
