The Scandinavian Midsummer Festival, one of Metro Vancouver's most beloved cultural festivals, returns for the 26th year to entertain and enlighten attendees at the Scandinavian Community Centre and grounds in Burnaby, June 24 and 25.
"This is an event for the entire Burnaby community and the Metro Vancouver area, celebrating an element of summer and a lot of shared values from Scandinavian heritage, bringing community together in a very well-organized way." Popular main events Don't miss Saturday's ceremonial raising of the Midsummer pole, celebrating the returning light and summer, decorated in greenery and flowers. A traditional walk/dance around with Scandinavian Dancers, and the mischievous roving Knotty Trolls who add to the merriment.
Traditional food, entertainment Indulge in customary cuisine with standouts like, Danish smørrebrød sandwiches, various pastries , topped with pearl sugar are popular), waffles , and Swedish and Finnish meatballs, with lingonberry jam. "There's a wide assortment of Scandinavian candy, too," says Emslie. "Candies that aren't typical or found in Canada."
Displays and exhibits Explore the historic Viking village built and inhabited by Reik Félag, a Norse Culture Recreation Society. Play Old Norse games, learn about Viking trade practices and observe demonstrations, like weaving and how Vikings lived in 1000 AD.