The Swedish Midsummer Guide
Whoever said summer was cancelled this year must have been sorely mistaken because summer will always be summer. Combine that notion with the resilience of the human spirit and you have a new kind of summer, undisturbed by the complete madness going on. Summer represents pure, unadulterated joy and freedom, and come rain or shy, we will bask in that warmth this year!
Midsummer, the official unofficial start to the summer, is next week and although it’s usually not a huge deal outside of Sweden, we’re amplifying the little joys this year. So grab a bottle of schnapps, salute mother nature and prepare to welcome the summer solstice like an absolute pro!
Photo Source: Inside Edition
SET THE SCENE
Welcome the season by inviting nature into your home, think delightful flower arrangements and lush greenery! This is the perfect reason to get those house plants you’ve always considered, a move that will not only give your space an upgrade but boost your senses, uplift your spirits and purify your air. All around win and step 1 of midsummer week!
Photo Source: Pinterest
BERRY OVERLOAD
You want to midsummer like a pro? That begins with food (as all parties do). A traditional Swedish midsummer is nothing without strawberries! Re-discover the magic of cooking by attempting the iconic Swedish strawberry cake or Jordgubbar. It’s not a competition but nailing this dessert will most definitely catapult you to the top of the midsummer leaderboard and as if that wasn’t enough, you get to eat it too! Indulge in other staples like pickled herring, new potatoes and salmon.
Photo Source: Great British Chefs
MIX IT UP
This is the perfect holiday to unleash your inner mixologist so dust off that cocktail shaker and get inspired by the season! Any flavour of schnapps is king here but vodka will do as well. Mix and match with your favourite juices, cordials and mixers and just have fun with it!
Photo Source: Sleek Magazine
FLOWER POWER
If there’s one thing that has become an iconic midsummer tradition, it’s the flower crowns- a delightful way of celebrating the joys of the summer season. This is a fun way to get your creative juices flowing and actually work with your hands so head out, pick out your favourite flowers and figure it out with your loved ones. Again, it’s not a competition, but best crown wins!
Photo Source: Unsplash
HEAD OUTSIDE
And by outside, we mean outside! Whether it’s a “picnic” in your garden or simply taking a long walk, take a Netflix break and re-discover the joys of outdoor play- sweating is healthy, people!
Photo Source: Madame Noire
GO VIRTUAL
As you can imagine, the usually huge festivities of Swedish Midsummer are heading online so you’ll be absolutely spoilt for choice with this one. The coming week will bring a plethora of virtual fun so pick out your favourite sun dress and just have fun with it!
