As the long-awaited Midsummer weekend approaches, Swedes across the country prepare for a celebration rooted in tradition, sill, and sometimes surprising stats.
Our office will be closed on Friday for the holiday. We'll be back on Monday, recharged and ready. If you need support, feel free to message us and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.
Now, let's take a closer look at what defines Midsummer by the numbers:
Seven boiled potatoes per person
The average number of boiled potatoes eaten per person. Midsummer isn't complete without potatoes, preferably with dill, butter, and someone asking, 'Is there more?'
4,000 tonnes of strawberries
Sweden consumes an estimated 400 million strawberries during Midsummer week. And still, someone always forgets to bring cream.
50% sun probability
There's a chance of rain on Midsummer Eve. Historical weather data indicates that the choice between wearing a sunhat or a raincoat is often a matter of personal preference.
Seven flowers under the pillow
Tradition holds that placing seven flowers under your pillow helps you dream of your future spouse, and you must stay silent while picking them.
Three schnapps songs at the table
Schnapps songs are most commonly sung at any given table. Chances are high you'll hear "Helan går" more than once. Bonus points if you know the words.
2 out of 3 people faking the frog dance
Some people pretend to know the frog dance choreography, and that's OK. The goal is joy, not coordination.
70% in the countryside
Swedes who spend Midsummer in the countryside. They prefer to spend their Midsummer at a summer house near a lake, where Wi-Fi is intermittent and they are fully committed to disconnecting.
Still curious about Midsummer?
Last year, we uncovered 11 myths about Swedish Midsummer, from weather expectations to maypole misunderstandings.
From all of us at Zooma: Glad Midsommar!
