Sankthansaften - Midsummer's Eve

Celebrating the magic of Midsummer's Eve in Copenhagen

Midsummer's Eve is a cherished tradition where locals gather in parks and by the water with friends and family to mark the year's longest day with barbecues, bonfires, and music. As dusk falls, the large bonfires are lit, often accompanied by the singing of an old traditional Danish song.

Sankthansaften has its origins in ancient pagan celebrations of the summer solstice, a time believed to be charged with magical forces, and the bonfire was believed to keep evil spirits away. Today, the celebrations create a feeling of togetherness, as locals welcome summer and the good times to come.

From mid-June, you can find out where to join the Midsummer's Eve festivities here.