How to celebrate Midsummer like a Swede

What's the significance of the maypole? Where does the frog dance come from? Is getting drunk obligatory? Jonas Engman from the Nordic Museum in Stockholm gives us the lowdown on Sweden's Midsummer traditions.

Published: 19 June 2024 14:06 CEST

Crowds gather to witness the raising of a maypole in Dalarna. Photo: Anna Hållams/imagebank.sweden.se

In this week’s Sweden in Focus Extra, host Paul O’Mahony chats to Nordic Museum curator Jonas Engman about the history of Swedish Midsummer.

It’s the most Swedish celebration of them all but how can you celebrate if you’re new to the country?

Our guest provides expert tips so everyone can find a place to do the frog dance dance around the maypole.

DON’T MISS:

Get Membership+ to listen to all The Local’s podcasts

Sign up for Membership+ now and get early, ad-free access to a full-length episode of the Sweden in Focus podcast every weekend, as well as Sweden in Focus Extra every Wednesday.

Please visit the link that applies to you and get a 40% discount on Membership+

For signed-in members: Upgrade to Membership+
For new members: Get Membership+

Read more about Membership+ in our help centre.

Already have Membership+ but not receiving all the episodes? Go to the podcast tab on your account page to activate your subscription.

___

Member comments

Become a Member to leave a comment.

Get Membership+ to listen to all The Local’s podcasts

Sign up for Membership+ now and get early, ad-free access to a full-length episode of the Sweden in Focus podcast every weekend, as well as Sweden in Focus Extra every Wednesday.

Please visit the link that applies to you and get a 40% discount on Membership+

Read more about Membership+ in our help centre.

Already have Membership+ but not receiving all the episodes? Go to the podcast tab on your account page to activate your subscription.

___