Printable Coloring Pages
Danish Midsummer's Eve (Sankt Hans Aften) Coloring Pages
Welcome to our Sankt Hans Aften coloring pages section.
Sankt Hans Aften, also known as Midsummer's Eve, is a traditional Danish celebration held on the evening of June 23rd. This festivity marks the summer solstice and is one of the most beloved holidays in Denmark. The celebration is characterized by large bonfires, which are lit to ward off evil spirits and bring good fortune. People gather with family and friends along beaches, parks, and open spaces to enjoy the warmth of the fire, sing traditional songs, and partake in festive activities. One of the most iconic songs sung during this night is "Midsommervisen." The evening often includes speeches, food, and drinks, creating a joyous and communal atmosphere. This collection captures the enchanting and vibrant spirit of Sankt Hans Aften, highlighting the traditions, symbols, and warmth of this special Danish celebration.
Five key points about Danish Midsummer's Eve (Sankt Hans Aften):
- Date: Celebrated on June 23rd, marking the summer solstice.
- Bonfires: Central to the celebration, bonfires are lit with an effigy of a witch to symbolize driving away evil spirits.
- Traditional Songs: Singing traditional songs like "Vi elsker vort land" (We Love Our Country) around the bonfire is common.
- Community Gatherings: Families and friends gather for communal events, often including speeches and music.
- Historical Roots: The celebration is historically marking the midpoint of the growing season.
Traditional songs often sung during Danish Midsummer's Eve (Sankt Hans Aften):
"Vi elsker vort land" (We Love Our Country) - A classic Midsummer song written by Holger Drachmann.
Danish snippet:
Vi elsker vort land, men ved midsommer mest,
når hver sky over marken velsignelsen sender,
når af blomster er flest, og når kvæget i spandet os kølighed sender,
når ikke vi pløjer og harver og tromler,
men går ud og ser på, at kornet står og smiler,
fordi det kan lide, at det er så varmt og godt.English translation:
We love our country, but most at midsummer,
when every cloud over the field sends its blessing,
when flowers are most abundant, and when the cattle in the pasture send us coolness,
when we do not plow, harrow, or roll,
but go out and see the corn standing and smiling,
because it likes that it is so warm and good.
"I skovens dybe, stille ro" (In the Deep, Quiet Forest) - A beloved Danish folk song.
Danish snippet:
I skovens dybe, stille ro,
hvor sangerhære bo,
hvor sjælen lytted mangen gang
til fuglens glade sang,
der er idyllisk stille fred,
du danske sommer, jeg dig ser
i skov, i dal, på høj, på hed,
dig elsker jeg så varmt.English translation:
In the deep, quiet forest,
where choirs of singers dwell,
where the soul often listened
to the bird's happy song,
there is idyllic peacefulness,
you Danish summer, I see you
in the forest, in the valley, on high, on heath,
I love you so warmly.