midsommarafton.nuUpdated 7 August 2026
How to make a simple flower crown
Make a base from soft florist wire, tying wire or a thin flexible twig. Fit it around the head before decorating and leave a little extra room.
Cut flowers and greenery into small bunches. Lay them in the same direction around the base and tie each bunch in place. Finish with ribbon and keep the crown cool and slightly moist until use.
Which flowers work well?
Daisies, clover, cornflowers, buttercups and grasses create a classic look, but use plants that are locally available and legal to pick. Green leaves make the crown fuller.
Never pick protected plants, and avoid cultivated land or private gardens without permission. Bought cut flowers are an easy alternative.
Seven kinds of flowers under the pillow
In older folklore, Midsummer night was thought to have special power. One custom says to pick seven – sometimes nine – kinds of flowers in silence and place them under the pillow.
A future love was then supposed to appear in a dream. Today the custom mainly survives as a playful Midsummer story.
Decorate the table and maypole
Use several small vases rather than one tall centrepiece so guests can see each other. On the maypole, greenery forms the base while flowers can be concentrated in wreaths or colour groups.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a Midsummer flower crown last?
It is best on the same day. Keep it cool and slightly moist, ideally wrapped in damp paper in a bag in the refrigerator.
Which flowers should I use?
Choose durable local flowers and greenery that you are allowed to pick. Daisies, clover, grasses and cornflowers are typical examples.
Why seven kinds of flowers?
Seven and nine often appear as magical numbers in folklore. The tradition is linked to dreaming about a future love.