Midsummer in Helsinki

The summer solstice can be celebrated in many ways also in Helsinki, even though most Finns disappear to their summer cottages for the Midsummer weekend. The islands off the coast of Helsinki are filled with revellers, and the traditional celebrations on the recreational island of Seurasaari begin already in the afternoon on Midsummer’s Eve.

Every June the official Midsummer celebrations have been held at Seurasaari for over 60 years, and each year the starring role is played by a wedding couple who get to dance their waltz on the main stage before lighting the main bonfire from a traditional church boat.

Other popular places in Helsinki for Midsummer Eve bonfires and celebrations include the recreational island of Pihlajasaari, the Kaivopuisto Park and the Tali allotment gardens. Midsummer dances are also an important tradition and can be enjoyed in the city at Linnanmäki and Kivinokka.

In recent years festivals have also been organised on the city’s beaches and islands. One way to experience the celebrations is by taking a Midsummer Cruise, during which you can see all the bonfires along the shoreline. A traditional Midsummer Sauna can also be enjoyed at one of the many public saunas in Helsinki.