Midsummer Eve, or Juhannus, is celebrated in Finland with great enthusiasm and is considered one of the most significant holidays in the Finnish calendar. It is centered around the summer solstice, usually falling around June 20th-26th, when the days are the longest and the nights the shortest. Traditionally, it marks the midpoint of summer and is associated with the celebration of light, fertility, and the power of the sun.
During Midsummer Eve, Finns leave the cities and towns to spend time in the countryside, specifically near lakes and forests. The key elements of the celebration are the bonfires or Kokko, which are lit to ward off evil spirits and promise a good crop for the new season. Many Finns also decorate their homes with birch branches and fresh flowers, symbolizing the fertility of the land and the promise of a prosperous year.
Another popular tradition during Midsummer Eve in Finland is the fortune-telling rituals, usually performed by the young, unmarried women to predict their future husbands. This holiday is not just about tradition though, it is a massive social event. People gather to enjoy music, dance, food, and games while basking in the midnight sun. Finally, let's not forget the sauna - no Finnish celebration would be complete without it. All in all, Midsummer Eve in Finland is a mix of whimsical traditions, family gatherings, and appreciating the gift of the sun and nature.