Juhannus in Finland

[Francis Bourniers]

The colder the country, the more passionately they celebrate their summer!

Juhannus, also known as midsummer, is a national holiday in Finland. It is usually spent with friends and family at a summer cottage away from the city, either partying or relaxing.

Juhannus is seen as the beginning of the warm summer weather and many Finns start their summer holidays on Midsummer Eve.

Taking place at the end of June, the "midnight sun" is an important factor in the festivities. People stay up all night under the sun.

Lighting bonfires (or as in Finland, they say "kokko") and saunas are two of the most typical traditions for Juhannus celebrations, along with barbecuing, fishing and boating at the cottage.

In the old days, Midsummer spells were cast, many of which had to do with increasing fertility and finding a future spouse. One tradition is for a woman to collect 12 different flowers and put them under her pillow for the night. Apparently she will have a dream of her future husband. Midsummer is also a popular time for weddings.

 

Beware of the mosquitos though!