News of Norway, June 24, 2003
Heavy rains attempted to drown most bonfires in the east and south of Norway during Monday’s festivities, while gorgegous weather in the northern parts of the country made for a St.Hans Aften to remember.
The longest and brightest day of the year
The name St. Hans originates from the well-known biblical figure John, born June 24. Up until 1770, St. Hans was a public holiday in Norway. However, it is the night before, St.John’s Eve, that Norwegians gather to celebrate.
And while the religious aspect of the celebration is key to understanding the history of the celebration and its various forms, June 23 marks the middle of summer, and holds the promise of the longest and brightest day of the year. On this day, the sun will turn, gradually reducing the hours of sunlight as summer turns into fall.
A night of magic
The bonfire tradition, which is particularly prevalent along the coast, goes back to pagan days, and was believed to produce fertile soil, while protecting from witches and evil spirits. Some believed the witches to be especially active on midsummer nights, gathering their witchcraft ingredients and preparing for witchery at evil gatherings.
The magic of the fire was seen as a remedy against the evil magic of the witches. However, not only was the fire seen as magic; so were plants and herbs – a belief that gave birth to a tradition that may still be found today: If a girl could find seven different sorts of flowers and hide them under her pillow on midsummer night, her dreams would reveal the image of her future husband.
Celebrated around the world
Most European countries celebrate midsummer, although the traditions vary greatly. Norway’s midsummer celebrations aren’t as elaborate as the Swedish equivalent. While the Swedes get the day off, June 23 is a normal workday in Norway.
Also on this side of the Atlantic, midsummer calls for festivities. To read more about the Midsummer celebrations in Grand Forks, Minnesota, click here. For more information about midsummer celebrations, click here for an interview with folklorist Guntis Smidchens.
Due to the lack of an actual bonfire, the Norwegian Seamen’s Church in New York turned to the wonders of technology for their midsummer celebrations: In front of tables beautifully set and decorated with fresh flowers, a virtual bonfire provided the necessary degree of authenticity – both in sound and in image. In a city flooded by rain, some 40 people had found their way to the Sunday festivities, enjoying Norwegian culinary treats, songs of summer, and friendly conversations.
Summer is finally here – and that’s a reason to celebrate!