While the Midsommarfest Traditions remain the same, it seems like every year there are at least a few changes in what is possible and this year is no exception. Please note important changes bolded in blue.
We are no longer able to provide free parking to festival guests. Be sure to bring your Discover Pass if you have one or be prepared to buy a daily or annual pass when you arrive. Park Staff will be around the festival parking areas with the ability to sell you a daily or annual pass using your Visa/Mastercard. The new park office will also be open for those who prefer to pay by cash or check. There are also automated kiosks around the state park lots.
Wear a folk costume—regardless of whether you’re a performer. Why? Because it makes the event more festive. Plus, if you are in costume, you qualify to be part of the Grand Midsommar Procession. It’s fun and you get a wonderful sense of community as you approach the pole raising area with other folks in costume, with musicians playing, and with the presentation of the garland.
Bring along whatever you might need to be comfortable and to deal with Mother Nature—ideally, sunscreen to avoid getting burned or an umbrella as a back-up sunshade. (If Mother Nature decides to misbehave, light weight ponchos can be purchased at the Skandia booth.) Buy lunch and/or Nordic treats from one of the vendors, or bring a picnic or some drinks and snacks to enjoy as you watch events.
Bring a blanket, lawn chair, or whatever will allow you to be comfortable watching performances, especially during the Pole Raising! By the way, Skandia also rents chairs from the park to provide extra seating.
Bring your camera to take advantage of a photo op with the signpost, or perhaps the trolls, the dancers, or...
Take advantage of this Midsommarfest Planning site to learn more about Midsommarfest 2024 at St. Edward State Park as it continues to be updated with new information in the days leading up to the festival.
Volunteer to help in whatever way you can—the week before cutting greens and ivy, Saturday doing set up, Sunday morning final set up, Sunday during the event, and/or clean up Sunday evening. The volunteer tasks provide an opportunity to catch up with old and new friends and help create a memorable event that highlights Skandia and some of the joys of Nordic culture. It would be great if you could sign up in advance by sending an email to volunteer@skandia-folkdance.org or leaving a message on the Skandia line 425-954-5262.
Make a donation to help cover expenses and keep the festival free in the future. A contribution of $2 (or more) will get you a special Midsommarfest Button while supplies last, so get yours early.
Stop by the Skandia Booth to buy a ticket for a flower crown before you head over to the Kukka Kioski to either make your own or buy one ready to wear. You can use use PayPal or get a discount for paying by cash or check.
Most important, you just have to be there to take it all in—from the wonderful performances starting at 11:00 in the morning, to the Main Event from 2:30 to 3:30, and more performances and the costume presentation after the pole raising, to watching kids (of all ages) enjoy activities in the Kids’ Area, to taking the pole down and enjoying the camaraderie of clean-up at the end.