Midsummer Day in Finland

Date and status

Midsummer Day was fixed on June 24 until 1954; it is now observed on the Saturday between June 20 and 26. The day is also called the Day of the Finnish Flag, and it is a holiday of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland.[1]

Midsummer Eve is the Friday before Midsummer Day. It is not a church holiday, but many collective agreements make it a paid day off for a large part of the population. This does not mean every worker has the day off; check the terms that apply to your workplace.[1]

Summer solstice and Finnish traditions

Midsummer celebrates the summer solstice, the longest day of the year in Finland. The University of Helsinki’s Almanac Office explains its Christian significance as a commemoration of the birth of John the Baptist. Finnish tourism sources also describe an older tradition called Ukon juhla, or Ukko’s celebration, named for a figure in Finnish mythology.[1][2]

Many people spend the holiday with friends or family at a summer cottage. Common activities include sauna, swimming, fishing, boating and grilling. Birch branches placed beside cottage or boat entrances are one traditional way of welcoming visitors.[2]

Bonfires, known as kokko, are another familiar custom, often held beside a lake or the sea. In Helsinki, public celebrations offer a city alternative: Seurasaari is a long-running venue, and other celebrations and Midsummer dances take place around the city. Bonfires and outdoor events depend on local arrangements and conditions.[2][3]

What to expect as a visitor

Cities can be much quieter as people head to cottages for the holiday. Finland’s national tourism board describes Midsummer as a period when the country largely shuts down, but opening hours and services vary. Check directly with shops, attractions and accommodation providers before making plans.[2]

The Finnish flag is raised at 6 p.m. on Midsummer Eve and may remain flying through the light night until 9 p.m. on Midsummer Day. In northern Finland the midnight sun is prominent in the celebrations; even in the south, the night does not become fully dark at this time of year.[1][2]