Midsummer Traditions
This is what June 23rd is called in Denmark
Sankt Hans
The longest day of the year is known as this
Summer solstice (sommersolhverv).
A classic drink often enjoyed at midsummer celebrations in both countries
Beer!
This animal is often associated with witches in folklore
A black cat
The Danish midsummer song “Vi elsker vort land” is also called this
Midsummer Song (Midsommervisen)
In Sweden, people dance around this decorated pole
Midsummer pole / "midsommarstång".
This phenomenon means it barely gets dark in Nordic countries in June
The midnight sun / bright nights
This flavored spirit is especially traditional in Sweden at midsummer (More common at Christmas in Denmark)
Snaps!
According to legend, witches fly to this mountain on midsummer night
Bloksbjerg (Blockula)
This outdoor game with wooden blocks is popular in Scandinavia
Kongespil / Kubb
This figure is traditionally burned on the Danish bonfire
A witch!
These small red berries are commonly picked in Scandinavian summers
Strawberries
This creamy dessert with berries is a typical summer treat
Strawberries with cream
In Nordic mythology, this god is associated with thunder and power
Thor
This Swedish tradition involves singing funny drinking songs
Snapsvisor /snapsviser
Swedes often place seven of these under their pillow to dream of their future partner
Seven different flowers
This tree, very common in Denmark and Sweden, is called “eg” in Danish
An oak tree
Pickled herring is most strongly associated with this country
Sweden!
This mythical creature is often said to live in Scandinavian forests
A troll
This is what it’s called when everyone sings together
A sing-along
The original purpose of midsummer bonfires was to do this
To scare away evil spirits
The Nordic countries are located in this climate zone
The temperate (or subarctic) zone
This Danish bread is often eaten with toppings at gatherings
Rye bread (rugbrød hehe)
Fire was believed to protect people from these supernatural beings
Evil spirits / witches
This is what happens when Danes and Swedes discuss whose country is better after 3 beers - what's it called?
A friendly argument (or chaos)