Midsummer, or Midsommar as it is called in Sweden, is one of the most important and beloved holidays in the Swedish calendar. Falling on the Friday closest to the summer solstice, Midsummer is a time when Swedes come together to celebrate the longest day of the year and the arrival of summer.
One of the most iconic traditions associated with Midsummer in Sweden is dancing around the maypole. The maypole, or Midsommarstång, is a brightly decorated pole usually adorned with flowers and greenery. It is raised in the center of the celebration area and serves as the focal point for the festivities.
The maypole dancing is a lively and joyous affair, with participants holding hands and skipping around the pole in a traditional folk dance. The dance is accompanied by music, typically played on traditional instruments such as the accordion and fiddle, and often involves singing traditional Midsummer songs.
The origins of maypole dancing in Sweden can be traced back to ancient pagan rituals celebrating the fertility of the earth and the arrival of summer. The tradition was later adopted by the Christian church and incorporated into Midsummer celebrations.
In addition to dancing around the maypole, Midsummer celebrations in Sweden also typically include a feast of traditional Swedish foods such as herring, new potatoes, and strawberries. Drinking schnapps and singing songs are also important elements of the festivities.
In many parts of Sweden, Midsummer is also a time for various games and activities, such as wreath-making, frog-jumping competitions, and maypole decorating contests. It is a time for communities to come together, socialize, and enjoy the long hours of daylight that characterize the Swedish summer.
Overall, Midsummer in Sweden is a time of joy, revelry, and togetherness. The tradition of dancing around the maypole is just one of the many ways in which Swedes celebrate this special holiday and embrace the arrival of summer. So if you ever find yourself in Sweden during Midsummer, be sure to join in the fun and dance around the maypole with the locals – it’s an experience you won’t soon forget!
