My Finnish Midsummer Adventure — Enjoying the Magic of Helsinki

Originally published on Medium (2024), now updated for Vocal!

Have you ever wondered what it feels like when the sun barely sets? Well, that’s exactly what happens during the Finnish Midsummer in Helsinki! This unique Finnish celebration is one of the best times to visit Helsinki, Finland. You can experience its vibrant culture and stunning natural beauty. Let’s discover what makes the Finnish Midsummer so special, and I’m sharing a personal experience and other tips to make your experience even better!

When is Finnish Midsummer?

Midsummer, or “Juhannus” as it’s called in Finnish, usually falls on the weekend closest to June 24th. You might have heard about this celebration called the Summer Solstice. It is the longest day of the year when the sun never really goes down. In 2025, the summer solstice is on June 21st, and the Midsummer festivities will take place from June 20th to 22nd. This period is the heart of summer in Finland and is considered one of the best times to visit Helsinki.

Finnish Midsummer Traditions

Midsummer in Finland is a time for family, friends, and lots of traditional activities. One of the most iconic traditions is the lighting of bonfires. These bonfires are believed to ward off evil spirits and bring good fortune. In Helsinki, you can find bonfires being lit along the coast that are creating a warm and festive atmosphere.

Another charming tradition is the raising of the Midsummer Pole. It is similar to the Maypole in other cultures if that is familiar to you. This is often decorated with flowers and green leaves, and people dance around it to celebrate the summer. Flowers play a big role in the festivities — Finnish women often wear beautiful flower crowns, and it’s also customary to collect seven different flowers and place them under your pillow. According to legend, this will make you dream of your future spouse!

Saunas are also an essential part of Midsummer. Almost every Finnish home has a sauna, and during Midsummer, it’s a tradition to heat them up and enjoy a relaxing time with family and friends. Many people also take a refreshing dip or swim in a lake or the sea after the sauna, which is a thrilling experience for foreigners.

Midsummer in Helsinki

If you’re wondering what to do in Helsinki during Midsummer, there are plenty of fun things to do in Helsinki that will make your visit unforgettable. While many locals are going to the countryside to celebrate, the city itself offers a unique charm and a variety of activities.

Seurasaari Midsummer Bonfires

One of the highlights of Midsummer in Helsinki is the Seurasaari Midsummer Bonfires. Seurasaari is an open-air museum located on an island just a short distance from the city center. During Midsummer, it becomes a lively venue with traditional music, dance, and, of course, bonfires. Seurasaari is a perfect place to experience Finnish culture and have a great time during the Midsummer celebration.

Helsinki’s Beautiful Canal Cruise

During my Midsummer celebration here in Helsinki, I took the Beautiful Canal Cruise, and it was amazing. This cruise is an hour and a half long and takes you through the stunning archipelago of Helsinki.

As we sailed, I was amazed by the beautiful views. There are so many islands, and each with its own charm. The islands with their green trees, rocky shores, and charming wooden houses looked just like something out of a fairy tale.

One of the best parts was seeing the Suomenlinna Sea Fortress. This place in Helsinki is very special and important. Our guide was telling about its history, like how it was used to protect Finland and how the islands were involved in wars.

Because it was Midsummer, the sun isn’t set completely, so you can enjoy the beautiful views also late in the evening. The soft, golden sunlight makes everything look magical. I think my cruise was also magical despite of early evening.

It’s also a calming and peaceful break from the busy city where you can enjoy nature and lovely views of the sea. If you’re in Helsinki for Midsummer, I really suggest you try this cruise. And don’t forget that you can take this wonderful cruise any time during the Finnish summer.

If you want to hop on Helsinki’s Beautiful Canal Cruise, here is a link to book your seat. Just to let you know, it's an affiliate link, but it won’t cost you anything extra.

Enjoy the City’s Green Spaces

Helsinki is known for its lush parks and green spaces, which are perfect for a Midsummer picnic. Parks like Kaivopuisto Park and Esplanadi Park are popular among locals where you can relax and enjoy the sun. Esplanadi Park is usually buzzing with energy during Midsummer, and you’ll often find music, food stalls, and people celebrating together.

Visit Suomenlinna

Another must-see in Helsinki is the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Suomenlinna. This sea fortress, spread across several islands, is a short ferry ride from the city center. During Midsummer, Suomenlinna offers a mix of historical exploration and natural beauty. You can walk around the old stone walls, have a picnic, and enjoy the stunning sea views.

Why Visit Helsinki During Midsummer?

Visiting Helsinki during Midsummer is a unique experience. It combines the beauty of nature with rich cultural traditions. Helsinki has lots of things to see and do because the days are long. Whether you’re taking part in traditional festivities, relaxing in a sauna, or cruising through Helsinki’s archipelago, there’s something magical about this time of year.

Things to Remember

• Book in Advance: Since Midsummer is a popular time for both locals and tourists, make sure to book your accommodation and activities in advance.
• Public Transport: Keep in mind that public transport schedules might be different during the Midsummer weekend, so plan your travels.

• Join the Locals: Don’t be shy about joining local celebrations. Finns are friendly and welcoming, especially during Midsummer!

Concluding Thoughts

The Midsummer celebration in Helsinki, Finland is a very happy time with lots of light and fun. Experience Finland’s unique customs, explore Helsinki’s stunning natural spaces and create long-lasting memories. So, if you’re thinking of visiting Helsinki, try to go during Midsummer and join the celebrations. It’s something special that you won’t want to miss!

Remember, whether you’re looking for fun things to do in Helsinki, wondering what to see in Helsinki, or simply wanting to enjoy the best time to visit Helsinki, the Finnish Midsummer is the perfect answer. Happy Midsummer, or as the Finns say, “Hyvää Juhannusta!”