Swedish Midsummer: family, frogs & flowers
Today is Midsummer’s Day here in Sweden. Of all the holidays we celebrate, this might just be the biggest. Yes, even bigger than Christmas.
This year, I spent it with my family in Åkersberga, the neighborhood where I grew up.
It was a lovely day with great weather, lots of people, and of course, the iconic Midsummer pole. Part of the tradition involves decorating the pole with flowers and birch branches before raising it. Then the singing and dancing begin.
To someone who’s not from Sweden, that last part might seem a bit… odd. Maybe even a little cult-like (if you’ve seen the movie Midsommar, you know what I mean). But for the kids, it’s pure joy, and honestly, it’s pretty entertaining to watch as an adult too.
The dances usually match the lyrics of the songs. One classic is “Små grodorna” (“The Little Frogs”), with movements that mimic the body parts frogs don’t have, like ears and tails. Yes, it’s just as silly and delightful as it sounds!
Fun fact: In the movie Minority Report, it’s “Små grodorna” that one of the Swedish actors sings in this scene.
As for the food, boiled potatoes served with fresh dill and sour cream along with herring, are a given. A schnapps or two often makes its way to the table as well. And for dessert? Strawberry cake. Always strawberry cake.
If you ever find yourself in Sweden around this time of year, feel free to use this post as your personal Midsummer guide.
Glad midsommar!