Midsummer – when everything is at its greenest

People have celebrated midsummer in Sweden since the end of the 19th century. At the summer solstice the earth's axle is tilted at its maximum towards the sun, giving the shortest night of the year.

Long ago people celebrated John the Baptist's birthday on 24th June. An important day for Christians. In the middle of the 20th century people began to celebrate Midsummer's Eve on a Friday. This year Midsummer's Eve is on 19th June.

At midsummer people eat, play and dance round the maypole, which is decorated with green leaves and flowers. In the old agrarian community they performed these rites to celebrate fertility and ensure a good harvest.

The shortest night of the year was also said to be filled with magic, every living thing had special magical powers, and all supernatural beings were especially active.

Many people celebrate at home or go to a big midsummer party where all are welcome.

This year most of the big midsummer celebrations have been cancelled because of the corona virus. But of course we must celebrate - and keep our distance.