Okay, let’s talk about one of the biggest celebrations in Sweden Midsommar. If you’ve never heard of it, just imagine a mix of flower crowns, pickled herring, dancing around a pole, and daylight that never ends. Sounds a bit odd? It kind of is but in the best possible way.

So, what exactly is Midsommar?

Midsommar (or Midsummer in English) celebrates the summer solstice, which is the longest day of the year. It usually falls on the Friday between June 19–25. While the origins go back to pagan times, today it’s more about food, family, friends, and enjoying that sweet, sweet sunlight after a long, dark winter.

Fun fact: in Sweden, the actual Midsummer Day (Saturday) is a public holiday, but the real party happens on Midsummer’s Eve, the Friday before.

What happens on Midsummer’s Eve?

People head out to the countryside, dress up in light clothes and make flower crowns (yes, even grown-ups), and gather around the maypole (midsommarstång). It’s a leafy pole decorated with flowers and ribbons, and people dance around it in big circles, often while singing songs about frogs. Yes, frogs.

If this sounds like a fairytale mixed with a children’s birthday party, you’re not wrong. But somehow, it just works.

What do Swedes eat?

Food is a big deal on Midsummer. The classic menu includes:

• Pickled herring in different flavors
• Potatoes with dill and butter
• Gräddfil (sour cream) and chives
• Crispbread and cheese
• And of course… strawberries with whipped cream for dessert!

Oh, and don’t forget the snaps (Swedish schnapps), small glasses of strong liquor that come with singing loud drinking songs. Even if you don’t understand the lyrics, just smile, nod, and raise your glass.

Wait… frogs?

Yep. One of the most famous songs is called Små grodorna (“The Little Frogs”), and during the dance, everyone hops around the maypole pretending to be frogs. It’s adorable, ridiculous, and just one of those “Only in Sweden” things.

Any other weird traditions?

Apart from pretending to be a frog in public?

There’s also a cute old legend: If you pick seven different flowers on Midsummer’s Eve and place them under your pillow, you’re supposed to dream of your future partner. Romantic or a little creepy? You decide.

Where can I celebrate?

If you’re in Stockholm, head to:

• Skansen: The big traditional celebration with music, dancing, and crafts.
• Vaxholm or Sandhamn in the archipelago: A bit more local and very scenic.
• Your friend’s summer house: If you get invited, say YES immediately.

In other cities, check the local tourist board for community celebrations. Parks, open-air museums, and even city squares often host something.

Why you shouldn’t miss it

Even if you’re not Swedish, Midsommar is a big part of the culture and a great way to experience something truly unique. It brings people together, it’s filled with joy (and sometimes mosquitoes), and it’s honestly one of the most feel-good days of the year.

Just don’t forget to bring a sweater. Because even in June, Swedish weather loves surprises.

If you’ve never celebrated Midsommar before, embrace it! Make a flower crown, learn the frog dance, try a herring (just once), and enjoy the bright skies. It’s a celebration of light, summer, and togetherness. What’s not to love?

Curious about other celebrations and holidays in Sweden? Check out out post Celebrating Like a Local: A Guide to Swedish Festivities