#69 Swedish Midsummer

June 21st is the highlight of the Swedish calendar! Why? Midsummer!

This is basically the day when everyone eats strawberries and dances around the Maypole.

#65 Swedens National Day (or hanging out with the Swedish Royal Family)

The Swedish National Day, June 6th, isn't a very popular holiday in Sweden. For most it seems to be just a day off work, instead of a celebration to actively partake in. While researching a few days before, I found it difficult to find information on events or activities in Stockholm, except for Skansen. Skansen is the large outdoor museum, featuring a mini zoo and buildings from Sweden's history. It is also the place that holds traditional Swedish celebrations and places special events, and it was where we decided to go.

What was extra special about the National Day in Skansen, was the appearance of the entire Swedish Royal Family, and a speech from King Carl Gustav! There were events during the day such as traditional Swedish dances and Swedish games activities, and then at 6pm was a special concert, which was broadcast live on Swedish television.

I had previously visited Skansen in March, when it was still covered in snow. It was nice to visit again in the sunshine, and to see it so busy too! 

 Traditional Swedish Dancers

 Speech by the Swedish King

The Swedish Royal Family