Swedish Midsummer Eve

As I mentioned in my last post, Friday was midsummer eve in Sweden, a very sacred holiday! It seems almost as big as Christmas. Everything is closed and the city is practically empty because everyone goes to the country to celebrate the occasion. 
My uncle and aunt took us out to the country for the day to take part in a traditional midsummer celebration. This involves the ceremonial raising of the maypole, followed by performances by the local folk dance group all dressed in traditional costumes, after which everyone joins in to sing and dance around the maypole. 

This woman made her costume, from weaving the fabric to sewing it together. Very impressive!

It's traditional to make a wreath of flowers to wear, so Herbert made one to fully immerse himself in the midsummer experience.

I included this last photo to show a super Swedish country house.