I find the idea of midsummer very romantic. In my mind’s eye, it’s blue light, a clear moon, bright stars, a warm breeze, and the scent of flowers in the air.
During my university days, my friends living in a sort of communal house out in the country would have a solstice celebration every year. They’d open their windows and doors to the outside and to their friends, and we’d eat, drink, sit around the fire, play music, dance, drum, and sing well into the night. It felt very pagan and I’ve yet to experience anything quite like it since then.
As I got older, midsummer would come and go without much notice, but now that I’m living in Denmark, I get to return to those solstice celebrations in a certain way during Sankt Hans aften. On June 23rd, people gather to light bonfires and sing songs. Granted, the songs are in Danish and I don’t know any of them, and there’s often a witch on top of the bonfire, but you can’t have everything ;-)
Last night, I went to a Sankt Hans celebration. Driving out to the site, I could see other bonfires dotting the coastline. It was cold, windy, and starting to rain, so I didn’t stay long, but it was still a cool experience.
Have I mentioned how much I love having a car?
Lisa says
I was thinking about Midsummer Day today – I like to make an effort to observe most holidays because life is short and there’s always work to do; it’s important to relax and have fun.
I’m not sure why it’s considered “midsummer” only 3 or 4 days after summer began, but I like the idea of it, even though I’m no pagan. And from what I’ve read, St. John the Baptist has something to do with it, tho I don’t know what it could be. (today’s his feast, but I don’t get the connection)
My brother and I are heading out to Elizabeth Park in Hartford this morning – did you ever go there when you lived in Connecticut?
I’m glad you have your car – too bad things are so costly.
Sage says
Hi Lisa,
I lived very close to Elizabeth Park. Such a beautiful park, and I love the Pond House!
I hope you had a great day out :)
~ Sage