Midsummer Night Magic / Juhannustaikoja

Midsummer holds a special place in Finland. With the sun never setting, people flock to countryside cottages to embrace the beauty of our lakes and forests. Bonfires are burned by the lakeside, saunas are heated, and it’s not uncommon to spot naked Finns running across the countryside. Given our short summers, we cherish this season even more.

There is a lot of folklore related to the midsummer in Finland. Traditionally, it has been a celebration of fertility, and many of the midsummer rituals are associated with finding a lover or spouse. ”Midsummer Night Magic” draws inspiration from these folk traditions.

One of the most well-known tricks is to collect seven different flowers and place them under your pillow on a midsummer night. Then you may see your future spouse in a dream. If this fails, some suggest that wearing your left sock upside down while sleeping may increase your chances. You may also catch a glimpse of your future lover in the reflection of a water if you look into a well, pond or fountain.

Many of the beliefs involve being naked. For instance, touring a triangular field three times while naked is said to lead to an encounter with your future spouse on the third round. Rolling around naked on a dewy meadow on a midsummer night is also believed to bring better luck in matters of the heart.

The Soundtrack of the video is by Orchestra Impossible (to be released).