A Swedish Midsummer

A time of coming together with a slower approach

🌼 Midsummer in Sweden: A Celebration of Light, Nature & Togetherness

Midsummer in Sweden is one of the most magical and meaningful times of the year. Falling on June 21st, it marks the summer solstice—a time when the sun barely dips below the horizon. In the northernmost parts of Scandinavia, it doesn’t set at all!

✨ A Tradition Rooted in Magic & Fertility

Going back to the 1500s, Midsummer was seen as a mystical period when fertility levels—of both the land and people—were at their peak. Swedes would decorate the outside of their homes and farms with lush green foliage to honour nature’s bounty and bring good fortune.

As Sweden moved into the industrial age, Midsummer became a special time for community. Mill workers would gather for a hearty feast—pickled herring being the star of the table, a tradition that’s still going strong today!

🌸 Floral Crowns, Maypole Dancing & Feasting

In more recent times, Midsummer has blossomed into a beautiful celebration of togetherness, tradition, and nature. People make floral crowns from wildflowers, dress in summer whites, and join in maypole dancing in village greens and local parks.

On Midsummer Day, families and friends gather for long, leisurely meals. Alongside the classic pickled herring, you’ll often find grilled salmon, spare ribs, and new potatoes with dill, all washed down with a glass of schnapps and traditional singing.

As the sun finally begins to dip (if it does at all), bonfires are lit, and people gather around them, enchanted by the flames, storytelling, and laughter late into the evening.

☀️ How Will You Spend Your Midsummer?

Taking inspiration from the Swedes, how might you create your own midsummer magic?

• What feelings do you want to experience?

• Who would you love to spend time with?

• What simple pleasures could you bring into your summer days?

One of my favourite things to do—both with my family and the children I work with—is to write a seasonal bucket list. It helps us plan meaningful adventures, savour small moments, and make lasting memories together.

🌿 A Sample Summer Bucket List

Here’s a little inspiration for your own list:

• 🍋 Bake lemon shortbread biscuits

• 💜 Make homemade lavender soap

• 🌿 Add fresh mint to playdough for a sensory twist

• 🍓 Forage for berries and make your own jam

• 🚂 Catch a train to somewhere you've never been

• 🧺 Pack a picnic and hike to an unknown destination

• 🚴 Go on a bike ride along the canal

• 🔥 Cook a new recipe on the campfire

• ⛺ Go camping and stargaze late into the night

• 🌹 Make perfume from fallen rose petals in the garden

• 🧚 Create your very own fairy garden

What will be on your summer bucket list?

To discover more about the Scandinavian ways of living and teaching well check out my training here