"Keeping traditions from Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden since 1937"

Scandinavian Midsommar: Your Ultimate Guide to Food, Fun, and Festivities

Now, let's talk about a tradition that awaits anxiously every summer, a real party for anyone who sees the sun as a good reason to celebrate as they lavish in ol' Scandinavian goodness! That's right, folks. I'm talking about Midsommar. Some of you might be scratching your heads, asking, "What's this Midsommar they're talking about?" It is basically your one-way ticket to a wild, thrilling, and delicious journey, that's what! Rooted in the depths of our ancestral traditions, this holiday is the epitome of celebration, gratitude, and mirth. So, strap yourselves in as we discover what makes Midsommar the spectacle that it is, shall we? 

The Celebration:

Imagine a scene with singing, dancing folks circling a beautifully decorated majstång or midsommarstång. Yes, those colourful maypoles adorned with anything green nature has to offer for this special day. Now imagine yourself being a part of it. Singing, dancing, encouraging nature for a plentiful year ahead – pretty fun, eh?

The Food:

Now, what's a celebration without a mouth-watering feast? Tables brimming with traditional delicacies, with herring being the star of the show. You can have it any way you like – pickled, fried, or marinated. Pair it with fresh boiled potatoes, a dollop of sour cream, sprinkled dill, and some chives. And let's not forget smoked salmon, barbeque, and fresh knäckebröd. And for the grand finale, strawberries served with cream or as a scrumptious summer cake. Tastes like heaven, doesn't it?

The Drinks:

And to quench our thirst, what do we have? It's Snaps – the official drink of Midsommar. Besides the usual beer and wine, Snaps has a league of its own. It has its own tradition of snapsvisor, where everyone at the table gathers for a round of toasts and downs Snaps. A perfect blend of social interaction and inebriation, don't you think?

The Games:

Oh, and did I mention how kid-friendly this holiday is? Midsommar is where children can truly shine, transforming into a magical wonderland adorned with maypoles, music, games, and even the iconic treasure hunt! The kids aren't told to, 'go play nicely outside' - Midsommar celebrates their boisterous laughter and endless energy. Just picture their faces beaming with joy as they run around wearing self-made flower crowns (quite the fashion statement, I must say). And those crowns? They're not just a fashion fad, they're a tradition! So, you wear that daisy or bluebell crown with pride. 


So, there you have it—the low-down on Midsommar, a seriously wild celebration if there ever was one. If you haven't yet got this Scandinavian festival on your bucket list, I suggest you grab a pen right about now... 

Ink your calendars! On the 22nd of June, join us in the charm and gaiety of Midsommar celebrations at the prestigious Alum Creek Sailing Club. The stage is set to revel in the traditions, to weave memories you’ll cherish forever. Remember the mantra – If you got it, show it! Let’s show off our brilliant customs this Midsommar! 





Scandinavian Club of Columbus is a 501(c)7 non-profit organization. Scandinavian Club of ColumbusP.O Box 14296, Columbus,OH 43214-0296 hej@scandiclub.com

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