midsummer
For many Swedes, Midsummer is the highlight of the year. It is celebrated on the Friday closest to the summer solstice in June. Tradition says that girls should pick seven different types of flowers, in complete silence, which they place under their pillow. That night they will dream of their future husband. Midsummer wreaths are made out of flowers and birch leaves and are tied to the Maypole – a symbol of fertility – before raising it and dancing around it. Songs are sung and traditional Midsummer lunch of herring and “snaps” are enjoyed.