Bonfires, Maypoles and a saint’s day: How Europe celebrates the longest day of the year

Midsummer celebrations throughout Europe coincide with the solstice. Many blend pre-Christian and Christian traditions.

By: Thomas A. DuBois, University of Wisconsin-Madison, The Conversation

Outlets: The Conversation

Published: June 17, 2026

Words: 851

Last Updated: 1 month ago

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By Thomas A. DuBois, University of Wisconsin-Madison

Whether cities or villages, many communities across Europe spend the day and night of June 24 celebrating Midsummer. Congregating around bonfires, or sometimes maypoles, sporting handwoven wreaths of wildflowers or oak leaves, they’ll sing, jump, dance, eat, drink, catch up and celebrate the arrival of the longest day of the year. As a scholar of folklore, I have been to Midsummer celebrations in Finland, Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Estonia …

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