HELSINKI, June 20 (Xinhua) -- Thousands gathered on Helsinki's Seurasaari Island Friday evening to celebrate Juhannus Eve, marking the start of Finland's cherished Midsummer Festival with bonfires and folk traditions.
Held at the Seurasaari Open-Air Museum, the event recreated countryside-style celebrations for locals and visitors.
Festivities began at around 6:30 p.m. local time with the raising of a maypole adorned with ribbons and greenery, a symbol of fertility and renewal. Throughout the evening, the crowd enjoy folk dancing, wreath-making, stilt walking, Finnish delicacies, and local crafts.
At dusk, several ceremonial bonfires were lit along the shore. Music and laughter continue late into the night.
"Juhannus is about light, nature, and togetherness," said festivalgoer Miikka Heikinen. "It's the heart of the Finnish summer."
Midsummer, officially observed on the Saturday between June 20 and 26, marks the longest day of the year. In northern Finland, the sun barely sets, while the south experiences only brief twilight.
The Seurasaari Midsummer celebration dates back over a century and has been organized annually since 1956.
Beyond Seurasaari, Helsinki offers additional Juhannus events, from nostalgic dance nights to scenic ferry rides and traditional saunas. Yet for many, the holiday is best spent at lakeside cottages, savoring nature and the glow of the midnight sun.
