Tips, When to Travel•June 24, 2025•4 Minutes

Does Finland Celebrate Midsummer?

Of all the traditions celebrated in Finland, Midsummer—known as Juhannus—is one of the most beloved. It’s a time when city life slows, people retreat to lakeside cottages, and the midnight sun paints the sky in hues of gold. If you’re new to this magical celebration, this article will show you why it holds such a special place in the hearts of Finns.

When is Midsummer in Finland?

Midsummer in Finland is celebrated each year around the time of the summer solstice, when daylight lasts nearly all night long. Midsummer Eve is always observed on the Friday following June 19th, with Midsummer Day on the following Saturday.

The celebration typically falls between June 19th and June 26th, during the brightest days of the Finnish summer—when the sun barely sets, and the sky glows with a magical light that makes time feel suspended.

Midsummer Traditions in Finland

Sauna rituals lie at the heart of the celebration. Whether shared with family or friends, each gentle wave of steam is followed by a refreshing plunge into the lake or a cool drink enjoyed on the terrace. This soothing cycle of heat and water perfectly reflects the essence of Finnish calm.

As evening stretches on, music floats across the still waters while bare feet wander through dewy grass. There’s no rush—only laughter, quiet conversation, and the soft glow of a sun that refuses to set. Loved ones gather along the shore to watch bonfires blaze, embracing the warmth and light together.

Finnish Midsummer Facts

In the days of old, bonfires were believed to chase away evil spirits and protect the year’s crops. Today, they bring people together—welcoming light, warmth, and shared stories that last long into the summer night.

In some regions, young people pick wildflowers and place them under their pillows, hoping to dream of their future spouse.

Midsummer Bonfire – and Other Ways to Celebrate in Finland

Midsummer is a time for life’s simple pleasures. Cyclists meander down forest roads, friends laugh over classic yard games like mölkky, and four-legged companions race joyfully along wooded trails. The grill crackles with just-caught perch, smoky salmon fillets, and traditional Finnish sausages. Around the table, you’ll find new potatoes with dill, crisp summer salads, and chilled berry drinks—flavors as fresh as the season itself.

Midsummer Highlights

Playing traditional outdoor games like Mölkky
Swimming, fishing, or simply relaxing by the lake
Trekking through peaceful forests with your furry friend
Exploring the wilderness on e-fatbikes
Grilling sausages over an open fire under the midnight sun

What is Mölkky?

Mölkky is a Finnish outdoor tossing game that combines skill and strategy. It can be played individually or in teams.

Players take turns throwing a single wooden pin (called the mölkky) at twelve numbered pins (1–12), which start arranged in a tight formation. After each throw, any knocked-over pins are stood back up exactly where they landed. As the game progresses, the playing field spreads out—making precision increasingly important.

two people driving e-fatbikes on duckboards

How to Score

Situation: Points Awarded

Exactly one pin falls: You score the number on that pin (e.g., knock over “11” → 11 points).

Two or more pins fall: You score the number of pins toppled (e.g., three pins down → 3 points).

The first player to reach exactly 50 points wins. If you exceed 50, your score resets to 25. Three consecutive misses eliminate the player from the game.

Mölkky Facts

Often played on flat ground: grass, gravel, or even snow
Every game layout becomes unique, as pins stay where they fall
The name Mölkky may be inspired by the Finnish word “pölkky,” meaning wooden block

How to Reach Lapland in Summer

Did you know you can fly directly to Rovaniemi from Central Europe during the summer season? Seasonal direct connections are available from Milan Bergamo, typically operating twice a week. In addition, Rovaniemi is easily accessible year-round via direct flights from Helsinki. Ready to experience a magical holiday at the Arctic Circle?