The Danish Midsummer

Sankt Hans Aften, Sankthansaften, or Saint John's Eve are the names for midsummer in Denmark. Celebrated on June 23rd, the Danish midsummer celebration is similar to many popular holidays in that it is a blend of both Christian and pagan rituals. 

​

As with midsummer rituals throughout Scandinavia, Sankthansaften began as a way to praise deities to bring fertility to both the land and its women. It was a time to push out evil entities, to come together as a community and embrace the magic of longer days. 

​

Nowadays, most Danes recognize it as a monolithic celebration, though its pagan roots say otherwise. The main festivity associated with this Danish tradition is the lighting of a central bonfire, often made to burn a straw witch. Most people will come and bring things they want to get rid of - a common trend is for children to burn their school report cards they weren't particularly pleased with. 

​

The maypole is another notable part of this holiday, less so however in Denmark than in Sweden. In Denmark, it is not a common factor in contemporary times as it was historically. Though it is a lovely tradition for other countries, Denmark focuses on the bonfire element. 

​

Drinks and merriment are, of course, the key to a great holiday. Townspeople will come together to laugh and be loud, staying up as late as they can to see the sun rise, which comes from the ancient belief that staying up will bring luck and health to those who manage it. Of course, this is easier for those in Scandinavia as the sun rises around 2AM.