Sankt Hans - Midsummer’s Eve celebration in Viborg
When midsummer hits Denmark and the sun hangs long over the horizon, Viborg's citizens and visitors gather to celebrate St Hans Eve - a tradition that combines nature, history and community in the heart of one of Denmark's oldest cities.
Historic atmosphere in beautiful surroundings
With its green parks, lakes and medieval town centre, Viborg provides an atmospheric setting for St. Hans celebrations. Particularly popular is the large bonfire at the Viborg lakes, where people gather in their thousands to enjoy a bonfire speech, music and a magical evening overlooking the water and the historic city skyline.
Bonfire speeches and sing-alongs
Sankt Hans in Viborg often features a thought-provoking and inspiring bonfire speech from a local voice - perhaps a well-known politician, a local firebrand or a cultural personality. When the bonfire is lit, the air is filled with communal singing, not least the traditional ‘Midsummer Song’, which creates a sense of community and Danish summer atmosphere.
Music, food and midsummer fun
Many places in and around Viborg - such as Borgvold, Viborg Domkirkeplads or local community centres and villages - will be hosting musical performances, cosy food stalls, snobrød for children and entertainment for the whole family. The events range from intimate gatherings to large, public events with live music and activities from late afternoon.
An experience for locals and visitors alike
Whether you're a local or a visitor to Viborg, Sankt Hans in Viborg is a great opportunity to experience Danish culture and tradition in the flesh. It's an evening where the glow of the fire, the length of the candle and the warmth of the community come together - in the centre of Denmark's green heart.
Find the best places
Borgvold
At Borgvold you'll find two different midsummer bonfires - one for the little ones and one for the slightly older crowd.
Information about the many different St. Hans bonfires and St. Hans evenings is only published a few days before 23 June. Therefore, we also recommend that you keep an eye on local media, municipal websites and notices in supermarkets and libraries, where information about upcoming events is often shared closer to the date.