In Åland Midsummer is celebrated with pole raising, song, music, dance and joyful games.
Pole raisings are arranged
at different times and in different places all around Åland, from early
afternoon to evening. Earlier in the day you can also participate in
decorating the pole with leaf garlands, wreaths and crowns.
The raising of the Midsummer pole
will also take place in different ways – either by hand through block
and tackle or by the help of a tractor. Always supervised by a pole
captain.
After the Midsummer pole is erected
the onlookers sing “Ålänningens sång” (the national anthem of Åland)
and then children and playful adults dance around the pole. Often
coffee is served, lottery tickets are sold and dance with an orchestra
are arranged in connection with the pole raising.
Decorating and rising of the Midsummer pole can be experienced at these places:
In Mariehamn:
See ads in the local papers a few days before Midsummer Eve for
exact times and more examples of places for midsummer celebrations in
Åland.