Midtsommer bonfire

Vikings descend upon the downtown waterfront of Poulsbo during the twilight hour for a Norwegian Midtsommer celebration. In Norway, Midtsommer is celebrated on June 23rd, known as Sankthansaften (St. Hans Eve), the evening before the feast day of John the Baptist. This tradition blends pre-Christian pagan customs with Christian influences, most famously marked by large bonfires near beaches or water. Once linked to mystical and superstitious practices, today’s celebrations are primarily secular, offering a festive way to welcome the summer solstice. In Poulsbo, the Sons of Norway Vikings bring this tradition to life with a spectacular bonfire on the shores of Liberty Bay, lighting up the evening sky and honoring the longest day of the year.

Earlier, during the day another local tradition is celebrated on the same day in Poulsbo, called ‘Midsommar’, a Swedish tradition of raising a maistang (midsummer pole), organized by the Poulsbo Leikarringen’s.

Poulsbo Leikarringen is dedicated to preserving and sharing Scandinavian heritage through traditional folk dance, music, and community events.

Poulsbo Sons of Norway is a fraternal organization dedicated to preserving Norwegian heritage, fostering community, and celebrating Nordic connections. After a day of tradition and the raising of the Maistang, the Vikings usher in the beginning of the summer with a Viking bonfire.