On the longest day of summer - the day of the summer solstice, another holiday is celebrated, connected with pagan rituals. Midsummer is widely celebrated by all locals and is particularly popular with young people. Summer in Sweden is quite short, and therefore Swedes are able to enjoy every warm day. On the longest summer day in the countryside, they kindle high bonfires, which help them drive away the evil spirits. In cities, bonfires are not made, but Swedes also gather together at one common table and sing folk songs. On this day, it is customary to guess. On the eve of this holiday, girls tear buds of seven different flowers and put them under their pillows, and they should dream of their betrothed. In the center of the holiday is the "May tree", decorated with branches, flowers and ribbons.
Among other unusual holidays in Sweden, it is worth highlighting the Day of the Holy Knout, celebrated on January 13. In the south of Sweden, they make a straw effigy, dress them up in rags and put them in the neighbor's house. When a neighbor opens the door, a scarecrow falls into his arms, which causes a lot of laughter and fun. On this day it is customary to throw out Christmas spruce, the process is accompanied by folk festivals. Also in Sweden are widely celebrated holidays of the royal family, in particular, the birthday of the king, which is traditionally celebrated on April 30. On December 10, the Nobel Day is celebrated. The holiday is one of the key holidays in the cultural life of the country. On this day, the most prestigious peace prize is awarded in various fields. The event takes place in the town of Stadshuset.
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