Midsommar (Mid-Summer) is the be all, end all of Swedish culture. It's perhaps the biggest and most important holiday in the country. This year, I got to experience it.
The day started relaxed... My girlfriend and I took a scenic drive through winding country roads to our friend Jennifer's house where we lounged around, talked to friends, and played a fiercely competitive round of croquet...
During midsommar, girls wear flowers in their hair... And this is how they make their crowns.
We just messed around for a while before having a Swedish lunch... Swedes love fish, and at this time of the year it's essential. We had potatoes, some raw fish (which I didn't like), all kinds of salads, and cider. Typically Swedish on the typically Swedish day - it makes sense.
"Sure is a big one" |
Hung out with these people for the day |
We went swimming after in the coldest water imaginable. You really have to take advantage of the summer months while they're around. Then we did some more eating - desserts this time. The day was full, in a good way. Lots to do, but relaxing the whole way.
All in all, it was a perfect way for me to spend my first midsommar. Whether or not I dance around one of those giant poles again is a matter for debate, but the point is that I've done it once and now I can cross it off my list of "Swedish things to do".
Happy Midsommar all.
Swedish flag comin' out of my head |