Norwegian midsummer, St Hans, is fun

Tonight is the Eve of St. Hans, or Saint John. And it can be a fun affair, especially along the coast of Norway. In Tønsberg and Vestfold, it was so much fun for a long time that they had to add a special day off. And everyone has probably heard about the competition among the boys' gangs in Ålesund about who could build the tallest fire, originally made by herring-barrels.

Summer solstice, and the longest day of the year was June 21, the day when Swedes celebrate their Midsummer. I.e. it's getting darker, but we're really light-hearted on this day. It's summer vacation, school is over, and we can enjoy the summer, the bright season.

It's fun, and especially the evening has a number of traditions associated with it.

We light a bonfire, and it's a magic atmospheric, especially when the bonfire is by the water or the sea. A good, cosy atmosphere around.

Actually, these large fires were lit to scare away evil spirits..

Egentlig tente man disse store bålene for å skremme bort onde ånder. .

Actually, these large fires were lit to scare away evil spirits.

It is a magical night with added special effects, e.g. in water. Yes, many people bathe that night for cleansing. Or they pick berries and herbs, because this particular night they have got something special in them. According to the traditions.

Purifying it is also said (in Spain) to burn notes with words about negative thoughts or ailments.

But first and foremost, it's party and fun, games and barbecue.

What is typical Norwegian St.Hans food? Grilled sausages in lompe or bread. Potato salad and herring. Flatbread. Cold-smoked mackerel. Or prawns and mayonnaise with bread, butter and white wine.

During the San Juan celebration in Spain, which corresponds to St.Hans, especially in Alicante they practice bonfire jumping. In other words, you take the gutter and jump over the fire (when it is a suitable size...). It should bring good luck into the coming year.