A Swedish Midsummer

A time of coming together with a slower approach

Midsummer in Sweden

Midsummer comes on the 21st June and this is a time when it feels as though the sun never sets. In fact in northern parts of Scandinavia it doesn't! 

In the 1500's this time of year was seen as a magical time where fertility levels were high. This was celebrated by the Swedes decorating the outside of their homes and farms with green foliage.

As we moved into the industrial period mill workers would come together at Midsummer for a wonderful feast of pickled herring.

More recent traditions have seen the making of floral crowns from the wildflowers and maypole dancing in the local area. 

On Midsummer Day in Sweden many of these traditions remain. It's also very much a time of coming together with family and friends over delicious meals. Pickled herring is still a feature on the midsummer menu along with a grilled dish of salmon or spare ribs. 

The evenings are spent gathered around a bonfire, enchanted by the flames while also sharing a few stories.

How do you spend your summer?

Taking inspiration from the Swedes how might you spend your midsummer? What feelings do you wish to experience? Who would you like to spend time with?

One thing I have always loved to do with my family and also with the children I work with is write a seasonal bucket list. This way we get to plan some wonderful adventures that we will all enjoy and make many memories in the process. 

Here is a sample of a summer bucket list:

• Bake lemon shortbread biscuits
• Make some homemade lavender soap
• Add fresh herbs like mint to our playdough
• Go foraging for berries and make some jam
• Catch a train to somewhere we've never been before
• Pack a picnic and take a hike to an unknown destination
• Go on a bike ride along the canal
• Cook a new recipe on the campfire
• Go camping and stay up late looking at the stars
• Use the fallen rose petals from the garden to make perfume!
• Create our very own fairy garden

What will be on yours? Share your thoughts in the comments.

To find out more about Swedish Midsummer take a listen to my podcast episode here.