Lecture – Magical Saint Hans, Midsummer Night

Holbæk Museum Association is organizing a lecture with historian Gitte Kjær, who will talk about Saint Hans and the traditions associated with this evening.

The Danes love the Midsummer tradition of the witch on the bonfire and the fire that lights up the summer night. Drachmann's midsummer song has in some places been outcompeted by Shu-bi-dua's midsummer song, although the old midsummer song has proven to be hardy.

Gitte Kjær talks about the many traditions associated with St. Hansel; the vigil nights, the holy springs, the rag oak, the witch on the bonfire, St. Hansel's cow, as well as omens and weather rules in connection with St. Hansel. She also talks about a break with tradition that year, when organizers of the St. Hansel bonfire in Vestegnen replaced the witch with a pink plastic pig, lined with hay and with the sweetest expression in its big eyes.

Gitte Kjær is the author of the books "Saint Hans's Joyful Feast" and "Magical Saint Hans".

It is not necessary to register in advance. Buy tickets at the door, cash or mobilepay 87854.

Price:
DKK 30 for members of Holbæk Museumsforening
50 kr. for non-members.