Midsummer Day (Juhannus) in Finland marks the summer solstice and the Day of the Finnish Flag. Families gather at summer cottages, light bonfires, enjoy saunas, and celebrate under the midnight sun, making it one of Finland's most cherished holidays.

When is Midsummer Day?

Midsummer Day in Finland is celebrated on the Saturday between June 20 and 26.

The following is the list of Midsummer Day from 2020 to 2049.

The History of Midsummer Day?

Midsummer has roots in ancient fertility and sun rituals, tied to the summer solstice, when daylight is longest. Early Finns lit bonfires to drive away evil spirits and ensure a good harvest. Divination rituals, especially those predicting marriage and love, were common.

With the Christianization of Finland (from the 12th century onward), Midsummer was linked to the feast of St. John the Baptist.

The Finnish name Juhannus for Midsummer Day comes from Johannes, the Finnish form of John. Pagan customs such as bonfires and love charms continued, but were reinterpreted in a Christian context.

In the 19th century, Midsummer became associated not only with the solstice but also with Finnish national identity.

In 1934, Midsummer was officially declared a public holiday in Finland.

Since 1955, Midsummer has been celebrated on the Saturday between June 20 and 26. That same year, it was also designated as the Day of the Finnish Flag, with the national flag flown continuously from Midsummer Eve evening until the following night.