Midsummer marks the longest day of the year and for the Finns, Juhannus, as they call midsummer, is just as important as Christmas. Much like midsummer in Sweden, it is one of the most significant celebrations of the year, when people come together to dance, eat and enjoy the endless summer night. If you’re visiting Finland around June 21, it’s the perfect opportunity to experience the traditions of Juhannus up close. In southern Finland, you’ll see how locals prepare for the festivities and as a guest, it’s a truly special experience to be part of it all.
Read this article in DutchJuhannus: spending time with family and friends
For Finns, Juhannus is about togetherness and nature. It’s a time to leave behind the hustle and bustle of daily life and spend time with friends and family. This is reflected in the many traditions that define the celebration. Particularly in the countryside, you’ll see large bonfires, symbolizing the banishment of evil spirits. People gather at these spots to chat and enjoy the magical atmosphere that this long summer evening brings.
Juhannus in the Finnish countryside: dining and flower crowns
In the countryside of Southern Finland, Juhannus is also about enjoying delicious meals at long tables. Preparations start early in the afternoon, with everyone busy baking tasty treats and making flower crowns. These crowns are traditionally worn by women and children and are an important symbol of the celebration. The evening begins with a plentiful dinner at long tables, where the food often consists of fish, meat, casseroles, homemade bread, cake and pie.
Juhannus in urban areas: coziness on the terrace
Even in the urban areas of Southern Finland, Juhannus is celebrated in a unique way. The bonfires on the water are usually lit between 8:00 PM and 9:00 PM, allowing families with young children to participate. The shores are filled with people and boats float around the fire on the water. The boats do not get in each other’s way and there’s no crowding; everyone stays at a safe distance from the fire. Many people attach birch branches to their boats, sometimes so large that it looks as if entire trees are mounted. Once the fire is extinguished, large crowds head to cafés and terraces to enjoy the long summer evening together.
Celebrating Juhannus around Lake Saimaa
I spent several days during Midsummer by Lake Saimaa in southeastern Finland. With both abundant water and pristine nature, I witnessed a blend of the traditions mentioned above. I baked blueberry pie at Paula’s home (Okkolan lomamökit) and made a flower crown at Pulsan Asema, a historic site where you can also stay in a beautiful setting. On Midsummer night itself, I set out with the M/S Charlotte; for several hours, I was on Lake Saimaa, deep in nature. Swimming and sauna are available, while the chef onboard prepares a delightful dinner. At 8:00 PM, the bonfire on the water near Lappeenranta is lit and once we return to shore, we take a look at the cozy terraces around the harbor.
How dark does it really get in Southern Finland during Midsummer?
The sun does set at this time, but it never gets completely dark. Especially around Lake Saimaa, it’s stunning to watch the sunset and see the colors of the horizon change. Around 11:00 PM there is still a soft twilight. And by 3:00 AM, the sun is already rising again. If the weather and clouds are on your side, you can enjoy magical light for hours!
Midsummer in Finland: a unique experience
Whether you’re diving into the city for an evening on a terrace or enjoying the fire and coziness in the countryside, experiencing Juhannus is something I won’t forget anytime soon. It’s about enjoying togetherness, nature, life and the magic that Midsummer night brings.
Book it yourself or join an organized trip to Southern Finland?
Want to head to Lake Saimaa in southern Finland to celebrate Midsummer? It’s easy to book a flight to Helsinki and book a rental car, which you can pick up upon arrival. Book a few beautiful accommodations by Lake Saimaa and you’re ready to go!
If you find it a hassle to book everything yourself, there are travel organizations that offer fully organized trips to this part of Finland. These trips take the stress out of planning, letting you enjoy your vacation without the fuss of booking accommodations, transportation and activities yourself.
