Last year, we really didn't see much of Swedish Midsommar's Eve. We were only in-country for half the day and it was raining hard and cold the whole time (which we are told is not uncommon.)
This year, we actually had a really nice June. It didn't rain much and was warm and Midsommar cooperated with more of the same-- we did have a few small rain showers but there is rarely a day in Sweden when it doesn't rain at least a litte.
Like usual for Swedish holidays, you celebrate on the eve of the holiday. It is kind of funny because nothing seems to happen on the holidays themselves. We gathered with friends from church at a beach house in Åhus. I'm still a little confused about how the whole food thing goes on Midsommar but I think this is what is traditionally done. At least this seems to be the tradition for our church friends. Forgive me if I'm wrong Swedes! You eat off and on all day-- with different types of food for each course. Around lunch time we had a traditional Swedish smorgabord-- boiled potatoes served with sour cream and herbs, meatballs, pickled herring, and such. Then a few hours later it was time for fresh strawberries with whipped cream and ice cream.
 |
| Lots of strawberries sold in Sweden at Midsommar |
Then a few hours after that they fired up the grill and everyone grilled their dinner. This is the point I felt really American and unprepared. I brought hot dogs and buns-- the end. Most families brought full-fledged delicious looking meals to grill-- complete with real dishes and silverware to eat with.
 |
| Singing around the maypole |
In between the eating, the girls made themselves crowns of flowers and people helped decorate the maypole with flowers. Then later everyone gathered in a circle around the maypole and sang traditional Midsommar songs. Some involved rather silly actions and one even had a game sort of like "London Bridge."
Since we were near the beach, the other big activity was swimming. I didn't get in but the kids did--their first time swimming in the Baltic-- and reported that it was COLD (though that didn't stop them). I did take my shoes off and wade on the beach.
 |
| Swimming in the Baltic--at this beach the water stays shallow for a long way out |
 |
| And the waves are very mild |
 |
| Walking along the beach |
Midsommar is one of the biggest holidays in Sweden. Probably second only to Christmas in importance, so I'm really glad we got to experience a good one before we went home.
